Key Takeaways
- A family harm incident occurred at Waitārere Beach, resulting in one man’s death and three people critically injured
- The incident involved a shooting, and police are not looking for anyone else in relation to the incident
- A woman and two teenage boys were taken to hospital in critical condition, while another young person was physically unharmed
- The Horowhenua Mayor described the shooting as tragic and a family harm incident
- The incident has shaken the small community, with some local businesses affected by the shooting
Introduction to the Incident
A tragic family harm incident occurred at Waitārere Beach, a small settlement 13km south of Foxton, resulting in one man’s death and three people critically injured. The incident involved a shooting, and police were called to the scene at around 12:40 am on Wednesday. Upon arrival, they found four people with gunshot wounds. The police and emergency services responded quickly, with two helicopters, two ambulances, one operations manager, and two rapid response vehicles attending the scene.
Details of the Incident
The Manawatū Area Commander, Inspector Ross Grantham, reported that a woman and two teenage boys were taken to hospital in critical condition. The woman was transported to Palmerston North Hospital by ambulance, while the two teenagers were flown to Wellington Hospital. Another young person who was at the address was physically unharmed and is receiving support. The gun was found at the scene, and a forensic examination of the property is underway. Police have stated that they are not looking for anyone else in relation to the shooting, and officers will be visible in the area while the investigation is ongoing.
Community Reaction
The incident has shaken the small community of Waitārere Beach, with many residents expressing shock and sadness. A local cafe owner reported that a booking of 12 was canceled on Wednesday morning due to the shooting, and some people were hesitant to visit the area. Neighbors gathered in the street, trying to make sense of the situation, and described hearing helicopters and lights during the night. The Horowhenua Mayor, Bernie Wanden, described the shooting as tragic and a family harm incident, stating that it was a devastating event for the community.
Police Investigation
The police investigation is ongoing, and officers are working to understand the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Inspector Grantham acknowledged the emergency personnel who responded to the call for help and stated that the police are focused on understanding how and why the tragic event occurred. The police presence in the area has been reduced, with two officers and a patrol car parked outside the address. The police will release more information as it becomes available.
Historical Context
The latest incident comes just over ten years after a horrific crime shook the small township. In 2016, 26-year-old Eric McIsaac was sentenced to life imprisonment after he admitted murdering his brother, 10-year-old Alex Fisher, at Waitārere Beach. The incident had a profound impact on the community, and the latest shooting has brought back memories of the tragic event. The police and community are working together to support those affected by the incident and to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
Support Services
For those affected by family harm or violence, there are several support services available. These include Need to Talk?, Lifeline, Suicide Crisis Helpline, Depression Helpline, Samaritans, Youthline, What’s Up, Asian Family Services, Rural Support Trust Helpline, Healthline, Rainbow Youth, and OUTLine. If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111. These services provide a safe and confidential space for people to talk about their feelings and receive support.