Police officers stand guard near the site of a reported shooting on July 20, 2023 in Auckland, New Zealand. Photo Credit: Reuters
In a “dangerous incident” on 20 July, New Zealand police said a gunman opened fire at a central Auckland building site, killing two people and the attacker.
The shootout coincided with the opening day of the Women’s World Cup, co-hosted by New Zealand and Australia. The US national team, currently based in Auckland, said in a statement that all its players and staff were safe.
New Zealand Herald At least six people were reported injured, including a police officer who, with the help of colleagues, was able to walk to an ambulance.
Police described it as a “significant incident”, but said the situation had been contained to a building under construction in lower Queen Street. Police were urging people to stay away from the area or stay inside their buildings if already there.
The incident occurred as several football teams were gathering in New Zealand for the FIFA Women’s World Cup. The opening match is to be held on July 20 between New Zealand and Norway.