In a shocking incident that has deeply shaken New Zealand, a police officer was killed and another seriously injured after allegedly being deliberately run over by a driver in the early morning hours of New Year’s Day. The tragic attack unfolded in Nelson, a city on the South Island, as the officers were conducting a routine foot patrol around 2 am local time.
According to reports, a vehicle suddenly drove into the two officers “at speed” as they patrolled a parking lot. In a disturbing escalation, the driver then allegedly turned the vehicle around and rammed into a nearby police car. A 32-year-old man was swiftly arrested and charged in connection with the incident.
Police Commissioner Richard Chambers, visibly shaken as he addressed reporters, said there was no prior indication of what was about to occur. The female officer who tragically lost her life, identified as Senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming, was a highly respected 38-year veteran of the force. She succumbed to her injuries at a local hospital just hours after the attack.
Community in Mourning
The heartbreaking loss of Senior Sergeant Fleming, who is survived by her spouse and children, has left the tight-knit Nelson community reeling. Chambers described her as a “hugely respected member” of both the police force and the city she dutifully served for nearly four decades.
This is a devastating loss for our police family and for the wider Nelson community that Senior Sergeant Fleming dedicated her life to serving. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
– Police Commissioner Richard Chambers
Rare Fatal Attack on Police
The killing of a police officer while on duty is an exceedingly rare occurrence in New Zealand, a country known for its low crime rates and general respect for law enforcement. The last such fatal incident occurred over a decade ago in 2009, underscoring the magnitude of this tragedy.
The second officer who was struck remains in serious condition but is expected to recover fully, while a third officer inside the rammed police vehicle suffered a concussion. Two brave members of the public were also injured as they rushed to assist the fallen officers in the chaotic aftermath of the alleged attack.
Suspect Charged, Investigation Underway
The 32-year-old suspect, who has not been named publicly, is due to appear in court on Friday to face charges relating to the incident. Authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation to piece together the exact sequence of events and determine the alleged offender’s motives.
As the nation grapples with this senseless act of violence against those sworn to protect and serve, tributes have begun pouring in from across New Zealand to honor the memory of Senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming. Her ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty serves as a somber reminder of the risks police officers face daily to keep their communities safe.
The New Zealand Police force and the Nelson community will now begin the difficult process of mourning their fallen colleague while rallying around the injured officers and supporting their families through this unimaginable ordeal. The nation’s thoughts remain with all those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy as the new year begins on a note of profound sorrow and reflection.
