New Zealand is grappling with a tragic incident that occurred in Auckland where a shooting claimed two lives just hours before the city was set to host the opening of the FIFA Women’s World Cup. The incident, which also left six others injured including police officers, took place at a construction site in the city’s central business district. The gunman, identified as 24-year-old Matu Tangi Matua Reid, is also deceased.
Prime Minister Chris Hipkins has confirmed that the attack is not being viewed as an act of terrorism. Despite the tragedy, he assured that the tournament would proceed as scheduled. He further stated that no political or ideological motive had been established for the attack, and reassured the public that there was no ongoing threat as the situation had been neutralized by the police.
The shooter, known to the police due to a history of family violence and mental health issues, was under a home detention order but had been granted an exemption to work at the construction site. Notably, he did not possess a license to own a firearm, raising questions about how he obtained the weapon used in the attack.
Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown clarified that the shooting was not connected to the Women’s World Cup in any way. The opening match between New Zealand and Norway at Eden Park proceeded as planned, with additional police presence in the area for reassurance.
The incident led to a significant armed police presence in the central business district, close to the waterfront and fan park. Tatjana Haenni, chief sporting director for National Women’s Soccer league USA, who was staying nearby, reported feeling safe despite the incident.
In a televised address, PM Hipkins expressed his condolences to the victims’ families, stating that the entire nation was mourning with them. He assured that the police would thoroughly investigate how the shooter managed to obtain a firearm despite New Zealand’s stringent gun control laws.
FIFA also expressed its deepest condolences to the victims’ families and confirmed that all personnel and football teams were safe and accounted for. The organization is in communication with New Zealand authorities and is providing support to teams affected by the incident.
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