Police say they have contained a serious incident that unfolded at a high-rise construction site in Auckland’s CBD this morning, which has ended with the death of the alleged gunman.
“Multiple injuries have been reported and at this stage we can confirm two people have died. The male offender is also deceased,” Relieving Auckland District Commander, Acting Superintendent Sunny Patel said in a statement.
Police received reports of a person discharging a firearm inside the site on lower Queen Street at around 7.22am.
“A significant number of Police responded and cordoned off the area. The Police Eagle helicopter was also deployed and provided oversight,” said A/Superintendent Patel.
“The offender has moved through the building site and continued to discharge his firearm.
“Upon reaching the upper levels of the building, the male has contained himself within the elevator shaft and our staff have attempted to engage with him.”
Further shots were fired from the male and he was located deceased a short time later, A/Superintendent Patel said.
A short time ago, Prime Minister Chris Hipkins (pictured) addressed media regarding the incident.
“I want to thank the brave men and women of the New Zealand Police,” the Prime Minister said.
“Police who ran into fire from the gunman straight into harm’s way in order to save the lives of other.
“These kinds of situations move fast and the actions of those who risk their lives to save others are nothing short of heroic.
“I also want to acknowledge ambulance first responders who were there quickly on the scene this morning,” he said.
Cordons remain in place and Police continuing to ask the public to stay away from the area as their investigative work continues.
