Man fatally shot by police in incident in Matamata-Piako district, Waikato.
A man has been fatally shot by police in Waikato.
Police said in a statement the shooting occurred after a “protracted incident” involving a stolen car and an armed man entering a home and threatening a parent and child.
The statement said police stopped a vehicle driven by a “person of interest” on Ulster St in Hamilton about 12.30pm.
“The driver presented a firearm to police and then fled, driving erratically and at high speed. The offender then took a member of the public’s vehicle and continued to flee.”
“After being confronted by police, the man was shot and initially critically injured.
“Officers immediately provided medical attention; however, he died a short time later.”
No police staff or members of the public were injured.
Police said there would be an increased presence in the area in the coming days as multiple scenes were examined and staff worked to “establish a full picture of what has occurred”.
Police would also undertake a formal identification process for the deceased and his family would be provided with support.
The parent and child were being supported by Victim Support and local police, along with other members of the public who were directly affected.
Police at the McLaren Rd cordon turned a school bus around. Photo / Alex Cairns
“Today’s events will also have a huge impact on the officers involved, and we will be providing them with ongoing support.
“The Independent Police Conduct Authority will be notified and a Critical Incident Investigation is underway.”
Police cordoned off a section of McLaren Rd in Manawaru, north of Matamata, this afternoon with many police vehicles at the scene.
A school bus that approached the police cordon at the western end of McLaren Rd was turned around. Photo / Alex Cairns
A St John spokesperson said they were notified of an incident at McLaren Rd at 1.20pm.
