Armed police formed a shield around medically trained officers to try and reach the victims of yesterday's triple shooting in Whangarei but they were unable to save them.
"Our AOS [Armed Offenders Squad] and police staff did everything they could despite knowing there was an active shooter in the immediate vicinity," said Northland District Commander Superintendent Russell Le Prou.
"AOS have still entered the property to see if there was any chance they could save Wendy and Natanya. AOS staff formed a shield around medically trained police staff but tragically there was nothing we could do.
"Given the danger posed to them they have then sought cover. They put their lives in danger yesterday and I am proud of the professionalism they showed in a volatile and changing situation. They are being offered welfare and are supporting one another."
Le Prou said are continuing to make enquiries today into the tragic fatal shootings at a property on Mt Tiger Rd, Whangarei yesterday morning.