Jefferies family now have body

The body of Katrina Jefferies was released to her family yesterday as police continued to hunt her killer.

The 22-year-old was found dead in the bush off Waikowhai Rd last Tuesday morning.

Ms Jefferies left the Mt Roskill home she shared with her mother, younger brother and 20-month son on the Sunday night to meet a friend or friends. Police do not believe a weapon was involved in her death. They have previously said she suffered injuries to her upper body but are still not saying how she died.

Police have been unable to determine whether a sexual assault took place, a spokeswoman said.

The 36-strong inquiry team spent the weekend carrying out inquiries and trying to locate Ms Jefferies' associates. They did not learn of any further sightings of her in the 36 hours before she was found dead.

Police have appealed for anyone who walked or drove along Waikowhai Rd between 4.30pm on Monday and Tuesday morning to make contact.

The number dedicated to the homicide is 0800 Waikowhai - 0800 924-569.