Three people charged in connection with the death of a Christchurch teenager have appeared in court.
Connor Whitehead who was fatally shot in Christchurch on Friday. Photo: Give a Little
Connor Whitehead, 16, was shot at a gathering in the suburb of Casebrook on Friday night.
Four people in their 30 and 40s have been arrested in connection with the shooting, with three of those appearing in the Christchurch District Court this afternoon.
A 46-year-old man and two women, aged 43 and 36, had their bail applications declined.
They were granted interim name suppression and have been remanded in custody.
All three will appear in the High Court at Christchurch on 26 November.
A fourth person is to appear in the Christchurch District Court tomorrow.
A scene guard is still at the property in Burnside where police executed a search warrant as part of their investigation into the shooting of Connor Whitehead last night. Photo: RNZ/Kim Moodie
Students at Connor's school are grieving and in shock today, the principal said.
Burnside High School principal Phil Holstein said today that Connor had a heart of gold.
He said the school is providing support to anyone requiring it.
In a statement, Connor's family said they were devastated by the teenager's death and still trying to come to terms with what had occurred.
"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.
"We are grateful for the outpouring of love and support we have received, and the generosity shown by everyone during this difficult time.
"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."
The family statement said Connor was in no way connected to, or affiliated with, the people who are responsible for his death.
The family thanked emergency services and asked for privacy to "grieve and process the tragic loss of Connor".