CBD incident: Scene guard remains in place as investigation continues

Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances that led to yesterday morning’s firearms incident in the central city.

Upwards of 70 people who witnessed the events have been spoken to.

Police have reduced the cordon around the area, which is now in place around the immediate vicinity of the site. Roads are open around the area.

A scene examination will also continue today, and a scene guard remains in place overnight.

‘We can advise that Police are not currently aware of any additional people presenting at hospital with injuries [yesterday] afternoon,’ said Acting Superintendent Sunny Patel, Relieving Auckland District Commander.

‘The Police officer hospitalised continues to be in a stable condition, and support remains in place for that member and their family.

‘We can also confirm a second Police officer that was involved in the response was later taken to hospital for a precautionary check up. They are not seriously injured.

‘A priority for the investigation is to identify the two people who died in [yesterday] morning’s events and contact their next of kin.

‘Police are not currently able to release the identity of the offender involved until formal identification procedures are carried out.

‘I would like to again acknowledge how distressing and unsettling this incident will have been for our CBD residents and workers.

‘The public will see an increased Police presence in the area, and we reassure the public that they can continue to come into the CBD as they normally would.

‘We also have a number of visitors in the city for the opening match of the FIFA Women’s World Cup at Eden Park tonight.

‘While the events of this morning were incredibly alarming, people planning to attend the match can be assured there is no reason for ongoing concern, and it is safe to attend the match.

‘Police are part of the FIFA Women’s World Cup operational planning group and are well placed to deal with events that may impact the tournament. Police will have a presence in and around the match tonight and throughout the tournament. This is our standard presence when major sports or entertainment events are being hosted in the city.’

Police will continue to provide updates as these become available.