Tragedy Strikes Auckland CBD Building Site: Multiple Injured After Gunman Storms Renovation Site, Suspected Shooter Believed to Be Dead
Large numbers of police are on the scene in Auckland following reports of gunfire. (Supplied)
Source: NZ Herald
A peaceful morning in Auckland's Central Business District (CBD) turned into a scene of horror and chaos when a gunman stormed a building site near Britomart, leaving multiple fatalities and several injured in his wake. The incident, which occurred at around 7:20 am, has sent shockwaves through the city, as authorities and the public grapple with the aftermath of this senseless act of violence.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing a volley of gunshots as the assailant entered the building site, which was in the process of renovation. Innocent civilians were caught in the crossfire, with six people confirmed injured, three of them seriously. The suspected shooter's fate remains unconfirmed as police investigations continue, but it is believed that the gunman died during the incident. The building site's location, a Precinct Properties building at 1 Queen St, was being worked on by L.T. McGuinness, whose owner, Matt McGuinness, confirmed the presence of the suspected gunman.
One construction worker, who narrowly escaped the harrowing encounter, shared his terrifying experience with NZ Herald. The worker and his colleagues were moving down the building's stairs when the armed gunman confronted them. They were ordered to ascend to the roof under threat of being shot. Luckily, the worker managed to hide with a colleague on another floor until they were evacuated by police.
As the situation unfolded, emergency services and police responded swiftly to secure the area. Roads surrounding the CBD, including parts of Lower Hobson St, Quay St, Queen St, and Lower Albert St, were closed to ensure public safety. The Mayor of Auckland, Wayne Brown, expressed his distress at the tragic incident, noting that the world's attention was on the city ahead of the opening match of the FIFA Women's World Cup.
In the aftermath of the shooting, a distressed construction worker revealed to NZ Herald that he encountered the gunman on the stairs of the Deloitte tower. The fire alarm sounded, prompting workers to evacuate the building. The armed man, dressed in a dark jacket, ordered them to go to the roof or face potential harm. The worker, who did not want to be named, managed to find refuge with a colleague before eventually reaching safety.
As authorities continue their investigation, the status of the shooter remains uncertain. The police are working diligently to identify the gunman and gather evidence surrounding the tragic event. However, based on the available information, it is believed that the suspected shooter has died during the incident.
During such times of uncertainty, it is crucial for the public to stay informed through official channels and follow the guidance provided by law enforcement. Avoiding speculation and unverified information can help maintain calm and order as the investigation progresses.
In the face of this tragedy, communities across Auckland are uniting in solidarity, offering comfort and strength to those affected by this senseless act of violence. The focus of the authorities is not only on identifying the gunman but also on providing support and assistance to the victims and their families.
As the situation develops, official sources and NZ Herald will provide accurate information to keep the public informed. In the wake of this devastating event, it is essential for everyone to remain vigilant and cooperate with the authorities to assist in the ongoing investigation.
As the city mourns the loss of innocent lives and supports those injured, the strength and resilience of the community will shine through. Acts of violence like this can have a long-lasting impact on the affected individuals and the entire community. Together, Aucklanders will find ways to heal, rebuild, and prevent such incidents from recurring in the future.
