Woman Dies, Man Critically Injured in Police Shooting Incident

A woman has died and a man is critically injured following a police shooting at a residential property on Clyde Road in Bryndwr. The incident occurred around 23:00 on November 1, 2023, after police received a report regarding a man armed with a knife who was threatening his partner.

According to Canterbury District Commander Superintendent Tony Hill, officers acted when they believed the woman was in imminent danger of serious harm. During the confrontation, the woman reportedly picked up the knife and threatened the police. Immediate medical assistance was rendered to her, but she succumbed to her injuries shortly after.

The man, who was shot during the incident, remains in critical condition in hospital as of Thursday morning. Superintendent Hill expressed condolences to the families involved, stating, “We have spoken to next of kin, and our thoughts are with the family of those involved at this incredibly difficult time.”

The incident took place at a property managed by Kainga Ora, New Zealand’s public housing provider. Liz Krause, the regional director for Kainga Ora, confirmed the shooting, noting that the organization will reach out to nearby tenants to provide additional support over the coming days.

As part of standard protocol, the shooting will be referred to the Independent Police Conduct Authority for further investigation. Superintendent Hill emphasized that this is a routine procedure following such events.

Witnesses at the scene reported seeing multiple police vehicles at the cordon on Thursday morning, underscoring the gravity of the situation. The community is left reeling from the tragedy, as authorities work to gather further details and support those affected by the incident.