In central Auckland on Thursday, a gunman carried out a tragic attack at a building site, resulting in the death of two people and injuries to at least five others. The incident took place just hours before the opening game of the Women’s World Cup, which was set to be hosted in New Zealand’s largest city.
According to New Zealand’s prime minister, the gunman also lost his life at the scene. Despite the shocking events, there was no indication of a national security threat, and authorities confirmed that the Women’s World Cup would proceed as scheduled.
The unidentified man went on a rampage with a pump-action shotgun early in the morning, causing devastation and prompting a significant part of the city to be put under lockdown. Among the injured was a police officer, whose condition was reported to be stable.
The motive behind the attack and the circumstances of the shooter’s death remained unclear at the time of reporting.
The tragedy overshadowed what was supposed to be a joyous start to a month-long festival of football in Auckland, which was intended to showcase the city and the country to the global audience.
Prime Minister Chris Hipkins expressed shock and deep sorrow over the rare mass shooting in New Zealand. Nevertheless, he emphasized that the tournament, co-hosted by New Zealand and Australia, would proceed as planned, with adequate measures in place to ensure safety.
Various national soccer teams, including the United States and Norway, were in Auckland at the time of the incident. Both teams confirmed the safety of their players and staff, although they were understandably shaken by the events.
Police provided a detailed account of the unfolding events, stating that the assailant had moved through the building site, firing his weapon before barricading himself in an elevator shaft. Ultimately, he was found deceased after more shots were fired.
Authorities assured the public that the incident was contained and isolated, allowing match-goers and the wider public to travel to the city center while avoiding the immediate crime scene area.
Multiple deaths due to shootings are infrequent in New Zealand, where stringent gun laws were introduced after the tragic 2019 Christchurch mosque massacre that claimed the lives of 51 Muslim worshippers and left 40 others wounded.
