Hours before the start of the 2023 Women's FIFA World Cup, a deadly shooting took place in the centre of Auckland, which is the venue for the opening ceremony and the first game. In the aftermath of the incident, at least two people and an armed attacker were killed. The Global tournament kicks off with hosts New Zealand taking on Norway at Eden Park.
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Prime Minister Chris Hipkins confirmed the incident and stated that the global sporting event would proceed as planned. Hipkins further added the shooting seemed to be an individual's actions and the police haven't been able to find a political or ideological motivation. The Prime Minister also stated that the security threat level will not see a change but extra police support will be deployed in the city.
Talking about the incident, the Police confirmed the shooter was armed with a pump-action shotgun as he moved through the building site and, "contained himself within the elevator shaft" after reaching the upper levels.
"Further shots were fired from the male and he was located deceased a short time later," the authorities said while confirming six others were injured, including police. "Details around what has exactly occurred are still emerging and police will continue to provide updates around injuries and the circumstances."
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The local authorities also decided to cordon off several streets in Auckland. Similarly, all ferry services into the city were also cancelled while buses running through the city were detoured. Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown issued a message of caution for the citizens of Auckland.
Brown tweeted, "This is a scary situation for Aucklanders on their Thursday morning commute to work. Please stay at home, avoid travel into the city centre."
