Both ends of a residential street in Pakuranga Heights remain cordoned off by police this afternoon following a fatal shooting earlier today.
Two police vehicles are at one end of Marvon Downs Avenue, at the intersection with Walworth Avenue, while another vehicle and an armed police officer are at the other end, at the intersection with Archmillen Avenue.
Armed police and St John Ambulance paramedics were called to the area early this morning, August 19, after police received calls about a series of gunshots at about 6.45am.
Police later said a person was found injured inside a vehicle. The victim was attended by medical services but died at the scene.
“There will be a significant police presence in the area this morning, as we work to find out what has occurred and who is responsible,” a police spokesperson said.
A photo taken of the scene shows a white work van with signwriting on it having come to a stop on the footpath.
Its doors are open and various items are lying on the ground at the passenger’s side.
A person at the police cordon told the Times a resident had reported hearing what sounded like gunshots several nights ago.
Pakuranga MP Simeon Brown has posted a statement on social media about the incident, saying he’s “horrified by the news of a fatal shooting in Pakuranga Heights this morning”.
“This will be incredibly disturbing for the community and neighbours.
“Police will have a significant presence as they investigate to find out what happened and who is responsible.
“If you have any information to assist … please call police on 105 quoting the reference number P059690585.”
News of the incident began this morning when locals posted on social media about hearing what sounded like gunshots just before 7am.
Nearby Elm Park School posted an alert on its Facebook page at 7.41am that stated: “Important Notice: Due to a major incident on Marvon Downs Road, which police have responded to, please note there is no immediate danger to Elm Park School.
“However, there is a strong police presence which may inhibit access to the school from Cascades Road side.
“I have spoken to the police this morning and have been fully assured the school can remain open. If any updates are required, I will put another notification out. Sarah Baleicakau, Principal.”
The Times will have updates on the situation when they’re available.
