Defence Claims Shots Fired at Hori Gage Were Intimidation, Not Murder

The defence team representing two members of the Black Power gang, Royden Haenga and Robert Richards, argues that the shots fired at Hori Gage were intended to intimidate him rather than to kill. The accusation comes as both men stand trial for the alleged murder of Gage, who was reportedly shot in front of his family in Palmerston North on August 6, 2023.

According to the prosecution, Haenga and Richards were seeking revenge for a previous attack on a local gang president. The Crown asserts that the defendants drove around Palmerston North armed with firearms, actively searching for Gage, a member of the rival Mongrel Mob. The incident has drawn significant attention due to its violent nature and implications regarding gang rivalry in New Zealand.

Gage, who was not involved in the earlier altercation, was targeted mistakenly according to his family and gang associates. The defence maintains that the intent was to scare Gage as a form of retaliation, not to take his life. This distinction is crucial as it may influence the jury’s perception of the defendants’ motives and the charges brought against them.

During the proceedings, the lawyers presented evidence suggesting that the shots were fired with the intention of creating fear, not fatality. They argue that the context of gang culture often involves intimidation tactics, which, while serious, do not necessarily equate to murder. The defence aims to persuade the jury that the actions of Haenga and Richards, while reckless, were not intended to culminate in Gage’s death.

The trial reflects broader issues surrounding gang violence and the impact on communities in New Zealand. As gang affiliations can often lead to complicated social dynamics, the court proceedings are expected to delve into the relationships and rivalries that characterize this environment. The case highlights ongoing concerns about gang-related violence and its repercussions on innocent bystanders.

As the trial unfolds, the legal teams will continue to present their cases. The prosecution is expected to emphasize the lethal outcome of the incident, while the defence will focus on the intent behind the actions of Haenga and Richards. The final verdict will depend heavily on the jury’s interpretation of the evidence and the motives behind the shooting.

Stay tuned for further updates as this high-profile trial progresses, revealing more about the complexities of gang culture and its implications for public safety.