Police Minister Mark Mitchell has expressed his full support for the officers involved in Wednesday night’s fatal shooting in Christchurch, calling it “the worst case scenario for any police officer”.
Speaking to Chris Lynch Media, Mitchell said the incident was “an incredibly tragic situation” and that both the officers and the families of those involved were under immense strain.
“No police officer ever asks to be put in that position,” he said. “It is extremely stressful on them and their families, and support has been wrapped around them straight away. My condolences and thoughts go to the family and friends of the man currently receiving medical treatment, and of course, to those mourning the tragic loss of the woman who died. There are no winners in this situation.”
Mitchell would not comment on the specific details of the Clyde Road shooting but said New Zealand police were “world-class” and received “world-class training” to deal with thousands of complex incidents every day. “We should be extremely proud of them,” he said.
The incident is now being investigated by the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA), which Mitchell said had “the resources, the independence, and the experience” to conduct a thorough investigation. “They have been doing this for decades, they know how to handle these matters sensitively and properly,” he said.
Mitchell was briefed by the Police Commissioner on the morning of the incident and urged the public not to speculate. “We should all wait for the findings of the investigation before making judgments,” he said.
He acknowledged the community’s anxiety following the shooting but urged Christchurch residents to support their police. “They are doing an outstanding job making your communities safer. If you see a police officer, give them a friendly word of encouragement, because right now they will be feeling it.”
Police update on the incident
Superintendent Tony Hill, Canterbury District Commander, said a scene examination is ongoing at the Clyde Road property. Cordons and a scene guard will remain in place while this work is completed.
A man remains in a critical but stable condition in hospital after undergoing surgery on Thursday afternoon. In the coming days, a post-mortem will be carried out on the woman who died at the scene.
“Incidents such as this are complex and a range of investigations are already underway,” Hill said. “As such, we are limited in the detail we can provide at this stage. Police are supporting the family of both the man and woman, as well as our own people. Officers involved in critical incidents such as fatal shootings are provided full welfare and wellness support.”
