A man has died after an incident that saw him point a firearm at police and then have his vehicle spiked after fleeing officers south of Rotorua last night.
Bay of Plenty District Commander Superintendent Tim Anderson said police were called to the rural area in response to reports of gunshots being heard around 9pm last night.
Officers attended and located a vehicle of interest, the driver of which subsequently pointed a firearm at police and fired shots before fleeing.
“No injuries were noted as a result of the gunshots,” Anderson said.
Armed Offenders Squad, a police Eagle Helicopter and dog unit were sent to the scene after the driver pointed a firearm at police and fled. (Source: 1News)
The Armed Offenders Squad, Eagle Helicopter and police dog unit were deployed as a precaution to assist with locating the driver.
Once the Armed Offenders Squad deployed road spikes in Putāruru shortly before 11pm, which brought the vehicle to a stop.
“The man has then died from injuries,” Anderson said.
“The attending officers have not fired any shots or used any force.”
He said support was being provided to attending staff and the man’s family.
Several police investigations were underway, including a Critical Incident Investigation, and the matter would be referred to the Independent Police Conduct Authority as a matter of course.
The Coroner will also be advised.
