Three people appear in court after alleged murder of 16-year-old Connor Whitehead

Connor Whitehead was shot dead at a party on Friday night.
Connor Whitehead was shot dead at a party on Friday night. Photo credit: File

Three people have appeared in court on Monday, charged with being accessories after the fact to the murder of Christchurch teenager Connor Whitehead.

The 16-year-old died after a shooting in the Christchurch suburb of Casebrook last week.

A 46-year-old male and two females, aged 43 and 36, all have name suppression.

Four people have now been arrested, while a fifth remains on the run.

Connor's father was in Christchurch District Court on Monday morning, clutching a framed photo of his son.

A statement was released by Whitehead's family on Monday morning.

"We are devastated by Connor's death and still trying to come to terms with what has occurred," it read.

"We are in shock and want answers about what happened to our beloved son, brother and friend. The magnitude of this senseless loss hasn't begun to sink in.

"Connor was in no way connected to or affiliated with the people who are responsible for his death."

The family said they were grateful for the love and support they've received.

"Connor was dearly loved and his passing has left a huge hole in our lives. He was a kind, talented and deeply loyal young man who had such a bright future ahead of him.

"We would like to thank emergency services for their response on Friday night and their ongoing support."

Det Snr Sgt Nicola Reeves says four arrests have now been made over the death of Connor Whitehead, who was found dead at the Casebrook house on Friday. One was charged on Saturday night and three more were arrested on Sunday.

She said an investigation into the shooting is ongoing and one person was still being sought in relation to his death.

"That person is aware they are being sought and we encourage them to come forward and speak with police," Det Snr Sgt Reeves said.

Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 105 quoting file number P048523046 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The Whitehead family has requested privacy while they grieve Connor's death.