Auckland Tragedy: Shocking Triple Fatality Unfolds on Eve of Women's World Cup
A tragic shooting incident occurred in downtown Auckland, close to the venue of the Women's World Cup opening match While the incident has been contained, NZ Prime Minister assures that the tournament will proceed as scheduled, with police confirming it is not a national security threat
Three fatalities occurred in a "severe incident" in Auckland, just prior to the commencement of the Women's World Cup. Law enforcement swiftly intervened upon receiving information that an individual had discharged a firearm within a downtown Auckland establishment, situated two miles away from Eden Park, where the inaugural match of the tournament was set to take place between co-hosts New Zealand and Norway.
At least six individuals, including a police officer, have sustained injuries, as stated by New Zealand's Prime Minister, Chris Hipkins. The injured officer received aid from colleagues and managed to walk to an ambulance.
Hipkins further confirmed that the World Cup will proceed according to the original schedule. He mentioned, "Given the commencement of the FIFA World Cup tonight, Auckland is under considerable scrutiny. The government has already discussed the situation with FIFA organizers, and the tournament will continue as planned."
"I want to reiterate that there is no wider national security threat. This appears to be the action of one individual."
Both the New Zealand and Norway teams have confirmed they are safe.
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New Zealand Football said it was "shocked by news of the incident in Auckland CBD".
"We can confirm the safety of the entire Football Ferns team and staff. However, due to ongoing developments, we are unable to provide further details at this time," they stated.
According to Norway captain Maren Mjelde, the presence of a hovering helicopter outside the hotel abruptly startled everyone awake.
"We felt secure throughout the duration," she stated. "FIFA maintains an excellent hotel security system, and our team has a dedicated security officer. Everyone appears composed, and we are continuing our usual preparations for the upcoming match on Thursday."
The occurrence coincides with the arrival of several football teams in New Zealand for the commencement of the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup in Auckland on July 20th.
NZ police: Incident not viewed as national security risk
Police have stated that the incident has been brought under control within a sole building on lower Queen Street, which is currently undergoing construction. However, individuals are advised to steer clear of the vicinity or remain indoors if they are already in the area.Due to your consent preferences, you’re not able to view this.
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Police have successfully controlled a grave incident that transpired at a construction site in Auckland's CBD earlier today, according to a statement by the New Zealand Police.
Several injuries have been reported, and we can currently confirm that two individuals have lost their lives. Additionally, the male perpetrator has also been pronounced dead.
This incident occurred following reports of an individual firing a gun inside the premises on lower Queen Street at approximately 7.22am.
A considerable number of police officers promptly responded and established a cordon around the vicinity. Additionally, the Police Eagle helicopter was deployed to provide surveillance and supervision.
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The perpetrator has advanced through the construction area and continued to fire his gun.
Upon reaching the upper floors of the building, the man entered the elevator shaft and our staff tried to communicate with him. Additional gunshots were fired by the man, and he was found dead shortly thereafter.
Specifics regarding the incident are still unfolding, and the police will share updates regarding injuries and the situation.
New Zealand Police moved to reassure the public, confirming the incident did not pose a national security risk.
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The FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 kicks off in Auckland on July 20
The situation that has unfolded is understandably concerning, but we want to assure the public that this incident has been successfully contained and is an isolated occurrence. Furthermore, we want to emphasize that there is no threat to national security.
Authorities have initiated an investigation into the events that took place this morning and police are actively working on it. As a precautionary measure, cordons are still in place, and we kindly request the public to refrain from entering the area while we carry out our work.
"Updates will continue to be provided this morning and police will also be fronting an update to media this afternoon."
