Nelson Police will charge a 32-year-old man with a total of eight charges including Murder and Attempted Murder following the tragic and senseless events in Nelson yesterday.
He is also charged with:
- Two charges of assault using a vehicle as a weapon.
- Two charges of Wounding with Intent (reckless disregard) in relation to the other officer who was injured and a member of the public.
- Dangerous Driving.
- Driving while Disqualified.
As the investigation progresses police expect that further charges will follow.
The man will appear in Nelson District Court tomorrow, Friday 3 January.
“For New Zealand, Lyn is tragically the first policewoman to be killed in the line of duty and the first police officer in Nelson. I know we are all struggling to understand why this has happened,” said Commissioner Richard Chambers.
“I thank the investigation team who have worked around the clock to get us to this point. They continue to speak with a number of witnesses today and have enquiries well underway.
“Lyn’s family have asked for privacy at this time while they are grieving. They wish to acknowledge Nelson Hospital, the members of the public who came to the assistance of the injured officers, and all of those injured in this incident.”
Appeal for CCTV footage
“As part of the investigation we are appealing to the community for assistance in providing footage of yesterday’s tragic event,” said Detective Inspector Lex Bruning.
The investigation team have set up a dedicated portal for receiving photos and videos and would appreciate the public’s assistance with this. Anyone with footage, including from cell phones of the incident can upload it here.
“Police would like to hear from anyone who was in the area who witnessed the incident or any events leading up to it.
“We will be doing area enquiries which will include visiting business in the area canvassing for CCTV footage. If any businesses think they may have relevant CCTV then we would ask that they please get in touch with Nelson Police.”
Anyone with information can contact Police online or via 105 quoting file number 250101/1197.
