Mangere shooting victim Epalahame Tu'uheava farewelled, but killers remain on the loose

The father who was fatally shot in the head last week has been farewelled at a funeral service in south Auckland.

Epalahame Tu'uheava's casket was carried by family and friends, who still have no idea why he was killed and who was responsible.

The Manurewa husband and father was found dead on a lonely Mangere street after being shot at least once in the head. 

His wife Mele, also known as Yolanda, was also shot and was found alive lying near her dead husband.

She is being treated in Auckland Hospital for gunshot wounds to her upper body - but she's been well enough to comfort their young son.

A week after the shocking attack, the killers are still on the loose and police say there are few clues as to who they are. 

There have been reports the shooting was a hit arranged by gang members in Australia.

Police say they're not searching for anyone there, but they are looking for two men here - and last week asked the public for help. 

The only description they have is that they're Tongan, and that one has a slightly hunched back.

Reverend Frederick Feki has known Epalahame since he was a boy. 

"I remember him as a peaceful child growing up in a Christian background. We don't know where we lost him along the way for him to end up being part of a gang," he said.

Reverend Feki believes the 28-year-old became involved in gangs while living in Sydney for a couple of years, and that involvement continued after he returned home last year.  

He says there are still many unanswered questions. 

"It's really hard to accept that a fellow Tongan has taken the life of a fellow Tongan. [We want] to piece together what happened and why it happened and why Abraham ended up on the other side." 

A public memorial was held last night in Mangere 

Those close to Epalahame are clinging to their faith to get them through.

"May God forgive them for what they've done," Reverend Feki said.  

An offer of forgiveness, but also a search for justice with the killers still out there. 

Newshub.