19 Jul 2023 | 08:32 PM UTC
New Zealand: Police responding to 'serious incident' on lower Queen Street in Auckland as of early July 20
FLASH: Police responding to 'serious incident' on lower Queen Street in Auckland, New Zealand, as of early July 20; avoid the area.
Event
Police have reported that they are responding to a "serious incident" that is now contained to a building under construction on lower Queen Street in Auckland's Central Business District (CBD) as of early July 20. A heavy security presence has been deployed and will reportedly remain in the area until further notice. Multiple people may have been injured in connection with the incident. Unconfirmed reports indicate that there is an individual with a firearm in the area and that shots have been fired. Authorities have instructed individuals in the downtown area to stay indoors and away from the affected area.
Transport and business disruptions are likely in the CBD over the coming hours.
This is a developing situation; additional information will be issued as warranted.
Advice
Avoid the affected area. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent the area and any related disruptions. Adhere to all instructions issued by local officials.