Three people are dead after a gunman entered an Auckland CBD building near Commercial Bay with a pump action shotgun and started shooting.
Prime Minister Chris Hipkins said a witness who saw the offender with a gun called police at around 7:23am on Thursday morning.
Armed police arrived shortly afterwards as the gunman moved through the building firing shots.
Armed police shot the gunman after he went into an elevator. Hipkins said there is no threat to national security.
The tragedy comes as Auckland prepared to kick off the FIFA World Cup tonight with the Football Ferns playing Norway at Edent Park. Hipkins confirmed the game will go ahead.
What we know:
- Three people are dead including the gunman
- Police said an officer is among six people injured in the shooting
- Prime Minister Chris Hipkins says there is no risk to national security
- The FIFA Women's World Cup opener in Auckland will go ahead as planned
- The shooter's identity has been reported as 24-year-old Matu Tangi Matua Reid
These live updates have finished.
Warning: These updates contain images and descriptions some may find distressing.
8pm - Prime Minister Chris Hipkins says it's been a day of mixed emotions for New Zealanders.
"To the brave men and women of the Police, our ambulance first responders and hospital staff who work tirelessly to keep us safe: thank you. And to the Football Ferns, thank you for being an inspiration to so many – and for giving us all something to get behind," he said in a Facebook post.
"The FIFA Women's World Cup kicks off tonight and it's a real privilege for New Zealand to host this event with incredible teams, athletes and supporters here from around the world. As a country that takes pride in manaakitanga and a love of sport, I know we'll show them a good time."
7:05pm - Players in the NZ v Norway Football World Cup match are wearing black arm bands in honour of those who died in this morning's shooting.
A moment of silence was also held before the match began.
6:30pm - Fresh questions about our gun control regime are surfacing following the devastating events in Auckland's CBD on Thursday morning.
Police have confirmed the firearm used by the shooter was not one of those banned following the March 15 terror attacks, but the gunman did not hold a firearms licence and was on home detention for convictions that should prevent him from accessing guns.
Read and watch the full story from Newshub's political editor, Jenna Lynch, here.
6pm - Here is the latest police update from Acting Superintendent Sunny Patel, Relieving Auckland District Commander:
Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances that led to this morning's firearms incident in the central city.
Upwards of 70 people who witnessed the events have been spoken to today.
Police have reduced the cordon around the area, which is now in place around the immediate vicinity of the site.
Roads are open around the area.
A scene examination will also continue tomorrow, and a scene guard remains in place overnight.
We can advise that Police are not currently aware of any additional people presenting at hospital with injuries this afternoon.
The Police officer hospitalised this morning continues to be in a stable condition, and support remains in place for that member and their family.
We can also confirm a second Police officer that was involved in the response was later taken to hospital for a precautionary check up.
They are not seriously injured.
A priority for the investigation is to identify the two people who died in this morning's events and contact their next of kin.
Police are not currently able to release the identity of the offender involved until formal identification procedures are carried out.
I would like to again acknowledge how distressing and unsettling this incident will have been for our CBD residents and workers.
The public will see an increased Police presence in the area, and we reassure the public that they can continue to come into the CBD as they normally would.
We also have a number of visitors in the city for the opening match of the FIFA Women's World Cup at Eden Park tonight.
While the events of this morning were incredibly alarming, people planning to attend the match can be assured there is no reason for ongoing concern, and it is safe to attend the match.
Police are part of the FIFA Women's World Cup operational planning group and are well placed to deal with events that may impact the tournament. Police will have a presence in and around the match tonight and throughout the tournament.
This is our standard presence when major sports or entertainment events are being hosted in the city.
Police will continue to provide updates as these become available.
5:40pm - Here's the latest update from Hato Hone St John:
Hato Hone St John's thoughts and prayers remain with everyone who has been impacted by today's shooting events in central Auckland today (Thursday, 20 July, 2023).
Our ambulance crews were called to attend an incident at a construction site on Queen Street at 7.20am this morning, where there were reports of an active shooter inside.
Hato Hone St John responded with five ambulances, four rapid response vehicles, four manager vehicles, a Command Unit, a Major Incident Support Team (MIST) Unit and Major Incident Tent.
Three people including the perpetrator lost their lives in the events that unfolded, and a further 10 people sustained critical to minor injuries.
We would like to acknowledge the bravery of our ambulance crews that responded to this incident.
Fortunately, this type of incident in New Zealand is rare but when events like this happen, the safety of our people is always our priority. We have various welfare tools and supports available to assist our people involved in today's incident, which we offer and apply for as long as required.
Due to the serious nature of this incident the New Zealand Police is the lead agency for continuing media enquiries.
Despite today's tragic event, our Hato Hone St John Event Health Services team will be at the opening match of the FIFA Women's World Cup at Auckland's Eden Park tonight. Our EHS team has been working hard behind the scenes to provide health services in the lead up to and for the duration of the tournament.
5:11pm - Hipkins' press conference has now finished.
5:10pm - Hipkins said he hadn't been to the scene of the shooting. Given the investigation that's underway, he didn't want to distract resources away from that.
5:09pm - Hipkins assured people it is safe to go to the FIFA World Cup opener tonight and the shooting will be acknowledged at the game.
5:08pm - There will be an increased police presence in Auckland tonight, Hipkins said.
5:06pm - Hipkins said he's met with the Police Commissioner.
He confirmed agencies will conduct their own investigation. Corrections has also indicated they will look into the offender's management, he said.
5:04pm - Prime Minister Chris Hipkins has arrived.
He began by expressing his condolences to the families of those who had died, and said the "whole nation is mourning with you".
His thoughts are also with those who are injured, including the two police officers who were shot at, he said.
4:55pm - Corrections' acting national commissioner Sean Mason has released a statement:
On behalf of Corrections, I would like to express our deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of the victims of today's shooting.
I would also like to acknowledge the survivors, witnesses and emergency responders. I can only imagine their horror and pain, and the enduring trauma that they will face. Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.
While Police have not formally identified the shooter, we have been advised the suspected offender is a 24 year old man subject to home detention. Our Chief Probation Officer is carrying out a full review into this offender's management. He was sentenced in court to five months home detention for family violence offending on 28 March 2023. He was subject to ten standard conditions, plus the following five special conditions:
- Not to possess, consume or use any alcohol or drugs not prescribed to him.
- To attend and complete an appropriate alcohol and drug programme to the satisfaction of a Probation Officer. The specific details of the appropriate programme shall be determined by a Probation Officer.
- To attend and complete an appropriate non-violence programme to the satisfaction of a Probation Officer. The specific details of the appropriate programme shall be determined by a Probation Officer.
- Not to associate with or contact a specific person without the prior written approval of a Probation Officer.
- To reside at a specific address.
While our full review is yet to be undertaken, initial information suggests that Community Corrections staff managed his compliance with these conditions closely. He was in frequent contact with staff, and was required to report in to his Probation Officer twice every ten days. He had last reported in yesterday.
Home detention requires a person to remain at a suitable and approved residence at all times and be electronically monitored 24 hours a day, seven days a week, unless approval to leave is given by a Probation Officer. This person had approved regular absences to travel to his place of employment, including at the time the incident occurred this morning.
He had completed an alcohol and other drug programme, and had been drug tested twice during his sentence, with negative results on both occasions. He was also actively engaged in a non-violence programme.
While initial indications are that Community Corrections staff were appropriately monitoring and managing his risk, the full review being carried out by our Chief Probation Officer will identify any action we can take to help prevent a horrific tragedy like this from happening again. We are absolutely committed to learning from this event and continuing our work to keep New Zealanders safe.
4:50pm - Prime Minister Chris Hipkins is due to speak to media at 5pm.
You'll be able to watch that in video player above once the feed starts coming through. Refresh the page if you can't see the stream.
4:25pm - MP for Auckland Central Chlöe Swarbrick has sent her condolences to whānau and friends of those who died and has acknowledged the work of first responders.
"This afternoon I flew back home to Auckland Central from Parliament with the Prime Minister and Police Minister to meet with the Police Commissioner, our Acting Area Commander and other Police at our College Hill Station," she said in a statement.
"We were briefed on the facts, including that this was very clearly an isolated incident connected to the workplace and that there is no further associated risk. That said, Police will continue to be out on the beat and present at the FIFA kick-off as planned."
Swarbrick said she agrees with the decision to close the FIFA fan zone tonight out of respect for those who have lost their lives.
"There will be a time after grieving and reckoning with this senseless violence to address policies and politics," she said.
"Violence like this has no place in our city nor our country. We utterly reject it and are dedicated to ongoing work on evidence-based interventions to prevent it ever happening again, which I fully expect will be openly and thoroughly discussed and debated in due course."
4:15pm - Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro said she was "deeply shocked" to hear of today's shooting.
"My husband and I extend our sincerest sympathy to the families of the victims. Successive Governors-General have had close relationships with NZ Police, and we admire their bravery and share their concern for their wounded colleague," she said.
"As Prior of the Order of St John, I also commend the courage of the first responders to the scene. I know we speak for all New Zealanders in expressing our aroha to everyone who has been impacted by this terrible event."
4pm - Politicians have reacted with shock and devastation to the deadly shooting in downtown Auckland.
Two people were killed by a man armed with a pump action shotgun who entered a lower Queen Street construction site on Thursday morning. The gunman made his way through the building firing the weapon until he barricaded himself in an elevator shaft.
Shots were exchanged with responding police and the man was then found dead. A police officer was injured in that exchange and has been hospitalised, while four other members of the public are being treated for injuries ranging from moderate to serious.
The Government has said there is no wider national security risk and FIFA events scheduled for Thursday evening will still mostly go ahead as planned, though the planned fan zone close to the scene of the shooting won't open.
Politicians have been reacting to the events, with Prime Minister Chris Hipkins earlier praising the "brave" first responders.
3:45pm - Special event bus and train services to get fans to and from this evening's opening FIFA Women's World Cup match will be running as planned, Auckland Transport has confirmed.
AT says its teams have been keeping in close contact with Police following this morning's shooting.
With police cordons in downtown Auckland now being lifted, all the special event bus services planned to get fans to tonight's match will be able to operate as planned.
Train services across Auckland are also running to schedule, meaning fans will also be able to travel to tonight's game at Eden Park by travelling on the Western Line to Kingsland.
With cordons having lifted around Te Komititanga square the front entrance to Waitematā/Britomart station is also being opened for passengers to use.
Auckland Transport executive general manager public transport services Stacey van der Putten says Aucklanders should be proud of the hard work of Police and frontline public transport staff today and their bravery while keeping Aucklanders safe.
"I'm so proud of our teams for the work they did today to keep our passengers safe while supporting the Police response and investigation into the awful shootings in downtown Auckland," van der Putten says.
"It's been heartwarming to see the messages of support flowing in for bus drivers and other public transport team members who acted quickly this morning to keep passengers safe and reassure them during an extremely stressful situation.
"Now that the Police cordons have been lifted I'm pleased to be able to confirm that public transport services will be returning to their usual timetables, stops and stations in time for the afternoon and evening peak.
"We are also able to confirm that all our special event services for the FIFA Women's World Cup will be running as planned today.
"There will be plenty of capacity on these services, and travel on all AT buses and trains is included with your tickets, so we're encouraging fans to make the most of this offer and use public transport to games today and throughout the World Cup."
3:35pm - Precinct Properties, which operates the construction site where today's shooting happened, has issued a statement from chief executive Scott Pritchard:
On behalf of Precinct Properties, I would like to extend our sincere condolences to the families of the victims following this morning's tragic incident.
Our thoughts are also with those workers onsite who were involved in today's traumatic events. We are deeply shocked and saddened that this occurred on our 1 Queen Street construction site, and I would like to thank the emergency services who bravely responded.
We are providing support to our team, contractors and their staff and cooperating fully with the police investigation. The 1 Queen Street construction site will remain closed until advised by the police.
3:30pm - National Party leader Christopher Luxon spoke to media just before.
He acknowledged the families of those who had died and wished a speedy recovery to people who are injured.
Luxon described the police and first responders as "heroic", and said many more heroes will emerge as pieces of today's shooting are put together.
"Today is not a day for politics, it is really a day to remember and express tremendous gratitude to our police officers, to our ambulance officers, to our hospital staff, and members of the public who stepped up and offered help when it was most needed by so many," he said.
3:15pm - The FIFA Fan Festival at The Cloud will not open today.
Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, the Office of the Mayor and Auckland Council have decided to cancel festivities located at nearby Queens Wharf associated with the FIFA Women's Football World Cup for this evening, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited said.
Instead, the Fan Zone will operate from midday on Friday.
3pm - Buses have all returned to their normal routes, Auckland Transport says.
All roads are now opened, they added, however, access to Britomart Station is currently only via Galway and Tyler streets.
2:50pm - Here is a statement from Police Commissioner Andrew Coster, recapping his press conference:
I am extending my condolences and sympathies to the families, friends and colleagues of those who were killed in today’s shooting event in central city Auckland.
Their lives have been irrevocably affected by this tragic event and our thoughts are very much with them today.
I have had an update from the investigation team who are working at pace to understand why this terrible event occurred today.
At 7.22am, Police received multiple emergency calls with reports of a person discharging a firearm from inside the third floor of a building under construction at the bottom of Queen Street.
Police were on scene at the site within minutes. We are continuing to piece together the entire sequence of events, however what we know is:
That the offender made his way up through the building site, discharging his firearm on multiple occasions.
Police entered the building within 10 minutes.
Staff from various groups right across Tāmaki Makaurau responded and members of the public inside the building were evacuated where possible.
We know several workers inside the building found refuge hiding within the building.
At 8am, our Armed Offenders Squad, alongside Special Tactics Group, located the offender inside a lift shaft where he had barricaded himself and our staff attempted to engage with him after securing the floors above and below.
The offender fired at Police, injuring an officer.
Shots were exchanged, and the offender was later located deceased.
Tragically, Police located two members of the public deceased on the lower levels of the building site.
The Police officer was transported to hospital in a critical condition, but we can advise his condition has stabilised.
The four members of the public have injuries ranging from moderate to more serious.
At least one of these people self-presented to Auckland City Hospital with moderate injuries.
While the situation is still developing, we know that there may be more victims as they make themselves known to Police and these injury statuses may change.
The building has now been cleared and the lockdown lifted.
A scene guard will remain in place while Police investigations continue.
This was an incredibly alarming incident for workers who were beginning their day.
We have contained the situation and are not seeking anyone else.
We have not formally identified the offender however we believe the man is a 24-year-old. We understand that he has worked at construction site and we believe the reason for his presence at the site this morning was connected with that work.
We know that those who work and live in the vicinity may be feeling vulnerable. However, we can provide reassurance that there is no reason for ongoing concern about this situation.
There is an increased Police presence in the area and we reassure the public that they can continue to come into the CBD.
The immediate vicinity remains cordoned while our team continues the scene examination.
We are communicating with local and central government, and FIFA tournament organisers.
Police have been part of the FIFA Women’s World Cup operational planning group, and as such were well placed to manage impacts on the event.
We are satisfied there is no ongoing risk to the public and no reason why the tournament should not proceed – the matches are safe to attend.
Again, I want to acknowledge this has been a shocking and traumatic event for those people who came to work and found themselves in the middle of an armed emergency.
Thankfully many people were able to escape the building, but I know that for those who hid or remained trapped in the building, this was a terrifying experience.
I want to acknowledge the bravery of our staff who walk towards danger to keep the public safe. I’m very proud of their actions today.
2:43pm - "Sad day for Auckland" - Eden Park CEO
Eden Park's chief executive has passed on his condolences to the family of the victims who were killed in the Auckland CBD shooting on Thursday morning.
Eden Park will host the opening match of the FIFA Women's World Cup tonight between New Zealand and Norway.
Eden Park chief executive Nick Sautner told Newshub Auckland has experienced significant adversity over the last three years and today is another example of that.
"Our great city and country have experienced significant adversity over the last three years, through lockdowns, natural disasters and now today’s tragic shooting," Sautner said.
"The Eden Park Trust and staff extends its deepest condolences to the whānau of the victims in the incident which took place in Auckland’s CBD this morning. It is a sad day for Auckland on what should be a day of celebration."
Eden Park has been working with all relevant agencies regarding this morning’s shooting and the impact on services and staffing, Sautner said.
Due to the global nature of this event, Sautner confirmed there will be an increased security presence within Eden Park and across the venue. Additional traffic management measures are in place and can be viewed at www.edenpark.co.nz.
Sautner said the gates open at 4:30pm and ticketholders are urged to get to Eden Park early to enjoy the FIFA activation zone and opening ceremony of the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
He also added:
- Free public transport is included with your ticket and all bus routes and train lines will be operational. Check the Auckland Transport journey planner for the latest information.
- Please monitor your FIFA app and download your tickets prior to arriving at Eden Park.
- Please be patient with our staff, with a workforce of over 3,000, a number of them will have experienced issues with transport to the stadium.
- We would encourage fans to leave bags at home to assist with ease of entry and recommend bringing a poncho or raincoat.
2:30pm - Auckland Transport has confirmed to Newshub a review will take place around its customer's safety once the situation in downtown Auckland has passed.
AT general manager public transport services Stacey van der Putten said the safety of its customers is always a priority.
"AT has been working closely with Police throughout the day to ensure people travelling around the city centre can do so safely," van der Putten said.
"We take direction from Police during incidents like this, and work with them to move people, public transport and vehicles safely during emergencies. We always review how we respond to incidents like this and will do so once the current situation has passed."
2:18pm - Auckland Transport have provided an update on the cordons that remain following the Auckland shooting from this morning.
2:10pm - Here are some photos captured by Newshub cameras from this morning when the Auckland shooting was unfolding.
2:04pm - Deputy Prime Minister Carmel Sepuloni will be making a statement in Parliament about the Auckland shooting.
You can watch it in this article here.
1:55pm - "Tragic and distressing"
Newshub has broken down exactly how the Commercial Bay shooting unfolded on Thursday morning.
You can read all about it here.
1:36pm - Stuff and NZ Herald say the gunman who shot and killed two people in Auckland's CBD on Thursday morning is 24-year-old Matu Tangi Matua Reid.
Reid was sentenced in March on charges of injuring with intent to injure, wilful damage, male assaults female and impeding breathing.
The shooter was sentenced to five months home detention at the Auckland District Court.
He was released from home detention to work at the construction site.
1:34pm - The press conference has now ended.
1:32pm - Coster said he doesn't have details of how the offender entered the building.
We know there have been some elements of mental health history in this case, Coster confirmed.
He said the cordon has been withdrawn to a small footprint, so the FIFA events should be able to proceed.
This is a tragic situation, it appears to be connected with the workplace, Coster said.
1:29pm - Coster said the victims who were killed were shot on the lower levels of the building. He added a police officer was shot by the offender during an exchange near the elevator.
The officer is expected to undergo surgery today, Coster confirmed.
Motivation is expected to be linked with the site, Coster said.
1:27pm - Coster said there is no ongoing risk to the public and no reason for the FIFA Women's World Cup not to proceed.
"This has been a shocking and traumatic event," Coster said.
Many people could escape, but for those who hid or were trapped, this was terrifying, Coster said.
He acknowledges the bravery of police staff and also added he doesn't know if the offender was killed by himself or was killed by police.
The victims are connected to the site, it's believed, Coster said.
Coster said police believe the weapon is a shotgun, but not a prohibited weapon. He did not have a firearms licence.
The offender is the subject of a home detention sentence. He had an exemption to work at the site, so there was no sign of a breach, Coster said.
The person is known to have a family violence history and nothing suggested he presented a higher level of risk than signalled by that history, Coster said.
Checks have been done at his property previously, never found in possession of a firearm, Coster said.
1:21pm - Coster said workers were found taking refuge and hiding in the building.
The Armed Offenders Squad found the offender in a lift shaft, where he had barricaded himself.
They tried to engage him, but he shot at them, injuring an officer.
The police officer was taken to hospital in a critical condition but has stabilised, Coster said.
Four members of public have injuries ranging from moderate to serious, Coster said.
He said the situation is developing and there may be more victims.
A scene guard will remain in place while the investigations continue but the situation is contained and police are not seeking anyone else, Coster said.
Coster couldn't confirm the identity but said the offender is a 24-year-old and he worked at the site, his presence was linked to his work.
1:18pm - At 7:22am police received calls about reports of people discharging a firearm on level 3 of a construction building, Coster said.
Police responded and were on site within minutes and were in the building within 10 minutes.
The offender went up to the site, discharging on multiple occassions
1:16pm - Coster starts off by extending his sympathy and condolences to families of those affected.
An investigation is working at pace to understand why and how this event occurred, he said.
1:05pm - We are just waiting on Police Commissioner Andrew Coster to turn up for the press conference.
You can watch it in the video above.
12:57pm - Police Commissioner Andrew Coster will provide an update on the fatal Auckland shooting in about five minutes.
Newshub will livestream it in the video above.
12:50pm - Here is the latest from FIFA following the Auckland shooting:
FIFA extends its deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims who lost their lives following the incident which occurred this morning in Auckland, New Zealand, and our thoughts and prayers remain with those who have been injured in this tragic incident.
Immediately following the incident, President Gianni Infantino and FIFA Secretary-General Fatma Samoura were in communication with the New Zealand authorities.
FIFA has also been in constant contact with the participating teams affected by this incident.
FIFA has been informed that this was an isolated incident that was not related to football operations and the opening match tonight at Eden Park will proceed as planned.
The opening hours of the FIFA Fan Festival in Auckland city centre will be confirmed in due course.
The participating teams in close proximity to this incident are being supported in relation to any impact that may have taken place.
12:40pm - Police Commissioner Andrew Coster will hold a press conference at 1pm to provide an update on the shooting in Auckland on Thursday morning.
Newshub will have live updates of it here and you can watch it live in the video above.
12:31pm - Major disruptions has been caused to public transport in Auckland's central business district on Thursday.
To get the latest on that, you can read Newshub's article on it here.
12:09pm - A police officer and four members of the public have been injured in the shooting in Auckland this morning, police have confirmed.
Here is the full statement from Acting Superintendent Sunny Patel, Relieving Auckland District Commander:
Police can confirm an officer has been injured, as well as four members of the public at this stage.
The Police officer was transported to hospital in a critical condition, but we can advise his condition has stabilised.
The four members of the public have injuries ranging from moderate to critical.
At least one of these people has self-presented to Auckland City Hospital with moderate injuries.
While the situation and scene is still under active Police management, we know that there may be more victims yet to make themselves known to Police and these injury statuses may change.
The building site has now been secured and a scene examination is now underway.
A Police critical incident investigation has been launched and as part of this we are working to understand the circumstances behind the offender’s actions.
There are upwards of 40 witnesses who were at or around the scene and they are in the process of being spoken to as part of this investigation.
Police are still confirming the sequence of events in which the offender died, and we will continue to provide updates.
As we have previously advised this is not a national security risk.
Police are liaising with the families of the victims, including that of the deceased, and we have engaged with Victim Support.
Support is in place for our officer.
Police enquiries will likely continue for the coming days, and we will be contacting those who were working on site and in the surrounding area.
- ADVICE FOR THE PUBLIC:
Police are reassuring the public that they can continue to come into the CBD.
However, please stay clear of the Police cordon at the lower part of Queen Street while our work continues at the scene.
Police are in the process of speaking to the large number of witnesses.
However, if there is anyone who was involved or witnessed today’s events, and they haven’t made themselves known to Police, we ask that you please contact us via 105 as soon as you can.
Police Commissioner Andrew Coster will be speaking to media this afternoon.
12:07pm - Police Commissioner Andrew Coster will provide an update on the Auckland shooting at a press conference at 1pm.
Newshub will livestream the press conference in the video above.
12:02pm - A decision on the opening of the FIFA Fan Festival at The Cloud in Auckland has been delayed until later today, pending further advice from New Zealand Police.
The Fan Festival was originally scheduled to open at 12pm on Thursday but a further update on the revised opening time will follow at approximately 2pm.
At this stage, all enquiries should be directed to New Zealand Police.
11:55am - A woman who lives at a property linked to the gunman in the Auckland shooting said she talked to the alleged offender on Wednesday night and everything seemed good.
"I spoke to him last night when he said he loved us," she told Stuff.
The woman said the alleged offender seemed excited about catching up with her.
"His phone went dead this morning."
11:40am - 'Tragic and distressing for all Aucklanders' - Wayne Brown
Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown has expressed his sympathy and support for those impacted by the Auckland shooting.
Brown said he is shocked and saddened by the events that occurred in downtown Auckland this morning.
“I can’t remember anything like this ever happening in our beautiful city. This morning’s events have been tragic and distressing for all Aucklanders, as this is not something that we are used to," Brown said.
“What we know is that this is an isolated incident. This appears to be the act of one individual, this was not a threat to national security, nor was it in any way related to the FIFA Women’s World Cup Event.
“While the details of the victims have not yet been confirmed, I want to express my condolences to their families. I also want express sympathy for those in the construction industry and commuters who will be feeling on edge following this incident."
Brown also wanted to thank police and first responders who were courageous in working to contain this incident and keep the public safe.
"Their efforts to contain the area and resolve the situation were exceptional," Brown said.
“I also want to acknowledge the role of the Aucklanders who remained calm, followed the instructions of police and stayed away from the area.
“Thank you also to our Auckland Transport staff for working to adjust their complicated schedules during peak hour to keep Auckland’s trains, buses and ferries moving to keep people safe.
“Ngāti Whātua have been in touch to offer cultural support to those in the city centre and will do a blessing of the site which I acknowledge and appreciate. This will be tough for many Aucklanders and if you’re struggling you can reach free support by calling or texting the number 1737,” says Mayor Brown.
“I want to assure Aucklanders and the international community that the city is open and safe, and our police and emergency services are prepared to respond quickly and effectively to incidents, however unexpected they may be,” says Mayor Brown.
“Despite today’s sad events, the FIFA opening game tonight will go ahead tonight, the city is ready, and I will be in attendance."
11:30am - ACT Party leader David Seymour also paid tribute to the victims of those injured or killed in this morning's shooting.
"I’d like to offer my, and ACT’s, sympathy to the families of this morning’s victims. I hope those injured are stable and recover soon," Seymour said.
"The response by Police and Ambulance staff was brave and effective. By arriving so quickly they likely prevented an even worse tragedy. As the facts become clearer there will surely be some heroes to honour from those forces.
"There will be a time to ask how such a thing could happen, how it could have been stopped, and what should happen to stop it happening again. That time is when all the facts are known, and carefully analysed. Rushing to conclusions often makes things worse.
"In the meantime, we should all be supporting those affected however we can. If you are in the Auckland CBD please be safe, and help each other out through this difficult time."
11:23am - The New Zealand International Film Festival (NZIFF) has cancelled its NZIFF For Schools’ screening at the Civic on Thursday.
But NZIFF general manager Sally Woodfield said it doesn't plan on cancelling any public screenings.
"We have been monitoring the situation in Tāmaki Makaurau this morning as it has unfolded and, in liaison with our school partners, cancelled our NZIFF For Schools’ screening at the Civic. We will reschedule this programme," Woodfield said.
"Our first public screening today is at ASB Waterfront Theatre at 11:15am with the first screening at The Civic not until 12:45pm.
" As such we do not plan on cancelling any public screenings today, and people are invited to attend at their discretion.
Woodfield said people are able to transfer tickets to a different session if they can't attend today.
"If you cannot attend for any transport or personal safety reasons, you are welcome to transfer to another session. Please contact Ticketmaster on 0800 111 999 or through Ticketmaster.co.nz or Ticketmaster app.
"We are continuing to monitor the situation and send our sincere thoughts to the loved ones of those who have been lost in this tragic event."
11:16am - National Party leader Christopher Luxon says his thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those killed and injured in the shooting in Auckland this morning.
He also wanted to thank police and emergency services for their bravery, in a message he wrote on social media.
"Like all Kiwis, I’ve been following the serious situation that unfolded in downtown Auckland this morning," Luxon said.
"My thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those killed and injured, and all who have been affected by this tragedy.
"I want to acknowledge the bravery of Police and thank them and all first responders for their commitment on the frontline.
"We will know more as the day unfolds - but for now we must do what Kiwis do best: come together and support people who have been affected in this terrible incident.
"Police are asking the public to keep away from the scene. Please follow their instructions as they get on with the job of providing the answers to the questions we all have."
11:10am - No change to New Zealand's national security threat level - Hipkins
You can listen to parts of Prime Minister Chris Hipkins' press conference here.
11:08am - Aucklanders are being urged to consider whether they need to travel to downtown Auckland while police continue to respond to the shooting near Britomart and Te Komititanga square.
Auckland Transport's executive general manager public transport services Stacey van der Putten said those Aucklanders who do need to travel will be able to reach the city on buses, trains and ferries, but there will be some disruption.
"Our public transport teams and frontline staff have worked incredibly hard this morning to keep people safe and moving as the firearm incident unfolded in downtown Auckland," van der Putten said.
"While we are asking people to reconsider whether they need to travel to downtown Auckland at this time, our teams are continuing to operate bus, train and ferry services for those people who do need to travel.
"A number of major roads remain closed and behind the Police cordon so we are also asking motorists to avoid the downtown area to avoid being caught in severe congestion near the cordons.
"We will be keeping in close contact with Police teams this morning and our focus is on ensuring that we're giving Police the space and support they need to respond to and investigate this incident."
11am - The Norway women's football team have confirmed all their players are safe and not affected by this morning's shooting.
Norway, who will play New Zealand in the opening game of the FIFA Women's World Cup tonight in Auckland, said they are staying in a hotel about 300-400 metres away from the shooting.
"Everything is calm in the Norwegian squad, which is eating breakfast right now," a spokesperson said.
"Preparations are going as normal."
Captain Maren Mjelde said everyone in the team woke up quite quickly when the helicopter hovered outside the hotel window and a large number of emergency vehicles arrived.
"At first we didn't know what was going on, but eventually there were updates on TV and the local media," Mjelde said.
"We felt safe the whole time. FIFA has a good security system at the hotel, and we have our own security officer in the squad.
"Everyone seems calm and we are preparing as normal for the game tonight. Then we may have to adapt if there are any instructions from the authorities."
10:53am - Here is a statement from Prime Minister Chris Hipkins recapping his speech:
This morning at 7.23am a witness called Police to report witnessing a man with a gun shooting in central Auckland at a building on lower Queen Street.
At 7.34am Police arrived on the scene and the Armed Offenders Squad was there four minutes later.
It is with deep sorrow that I can confirm 2 people have been killed.
At this stage I’m aware 6 others have been injured, including Police.
They have been taken to Auckland Hospital.
Police have confirmed the shooter is also dead.
The assessment from officials is that there is no national security risk.
There is no change to New Zealand’s security threat level.
This is what we know so far.
The offender was armed with a pump action shot gun.
He moved through the building site and discharged his firearm.
Upon reaching the upper levels of the building the man contained himself in an elevator and Police engaged with him, shots were fired and he was located a short time later.
I want to thank the brave men and women of the New Zealand Police.
Police who ran into fire from the gunman straight into harm’s way in order to save the lives of other.
These kinds of situations move fast and the actions of those who risk their lives to save others are nothing short of heroic.
I also want to acknowledge ambulance first responders who were there quickly on the scene this morning.
This is still an ongoing police operation, and I have limited further information I can provide at this time.
Police will provide further updates though the day.
Shortly I will leave to Auckland to join Police Commissioner Andrew Coster at the scene to provide any support to the response that I can.
Clearly with the FIFA World Cup kicking off this evening there are a lot of eyes on Auckland.
The Government has spoken to FIFA organisers this morning and the tournament will proceed as planned.
I want to reiterate that there is no wider national security threat.
This appears to be the actions of an individual.
Aucklanders and those watching around the world can be assured the Police have neutralised the threat and they are not seeking anyone else in relation to the incident.
New Zealander’s safety is our first priority.
10:47am - At least two people have died in central Auckland following a serious incident, which the city’s mayor described as a shooting to New Zealand public broadcaster RNZ.
New Zealand police said Thursday morning local time that there were multiple injuries reported and "and at this stage we can confirm two people have died. The male offender is also deceased."
Police have begun an investigation and are asking people to avoid the area, it said on Twitter.
CNN affiliate Newshub said it captured a man, covered in blood, being carried from the scene by police. He was treated on site by an ambulance after gunshots were heard coming from the scene, it reported.
Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown told RNZ he is getting regular updates from police but that it is hard to know exactly what is happening.
Police earlier said that a "serious incident in Auckland CBD" was contained "to a building in lower Queen Street, which is under construction."
Brown described it as a"dreadful thing to happen in our city at a time when the rest of the world’s watching us over the football," to RNZ.
The reported shooting casts a cloud over the 2023 Women’s World Cup, which is set to kick off later on Thursday in Auckland.
"This is not something that happens here, in fact I’m shocked that it’s happened here," Brown told RNZ.
Brown asked residents to avoid travel to the city’s center.
"This is a scary situation for Aucklanders on their Thursday morning commute to work. Please stay at home, avoid travel into the city center," he wrote on Twitter.
"Auckland Transport says passengers coming in to the city should delay travel. Cordons are in place funneling people away from the area. All of the connecting streets are closed," he added.
New Zealand’s parliament voted to ban military-style semi-automatic weapons in 2019, weeks after the Christchurch massacre left 50 people dead.
Then-Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern told lawmakers they were giving"a voice" to those killed in the mass shooting at two Christchurch mosques, which Ardern described as"the darkest of days in New Zealand’s history."
Reporting from CNN.
10:43am - The press conference has now finished.
10:38am - Hipkins said he was at the airport going to Hamilton when he heard of the situation. He tried to confirm the information and made the decision to return to Beehive.
His initial reaction was concern for anyone at risk.
From his work with police as Police Minister, the entire police whanau will feel it when police are in harm's way, he said.
"We rely on frontline police to put themselves in harm's way to keep New Zealand safe," Hipkins said.
"We will all send love and support to police."
His message to travellers is the risk has been contained, we are excited about hosting the FIFA Women's World Cup.
He said this has been a very grim morning for New Zealand and there is no ongoing risk.
He urged people to follow the guidance of the police and the situation has been contained.
"We will all feel for the victims and police," Hipkins said.
Any situation where innocent people have lost their lives should upset political leaders, he said.
10:35am - Sports Minister Grant Robertson said he has spoken to the President and Secretary General of FIFA.
They have given condolences, Robertson said.
The tournament will go on, and tonight's game will be played, Robertson said.
Police have already been part of the FIFA planning. There is already close cooperation, Robertson said.
He confirmed some teams were staying in the immediate area but are safe and sound.
He is aware of one team in a hotel immediately around the corner from the affected building.
Hipkins said he will keep under review his plan to attend tonight's game.
He doesn't know if the people who are dead were construction workers or people going about life
10:32am - All FIFA events will go ahead as planned, Hipkins said.
There will be increased police presence around Auckland to provide public reassurance, he said.
He has had no communications with other world leaders yet.
10:30am - Hipkins can't share any information about the identity of the shooter but police are working to confirm information.
The two people that were killed were civilians, from Hipkins' current understanding.
His understanding is that there was no identified political or ideological reason and he doesn't have information about whether the person worked at the site.
He also said he doesn't have information about motivation.
Police will be looking to narrow the cordon as soon as possible now that the threat is removed, Hipkins said.
10:27am - Hipkins said police ran into gunfire, "right into harm's way".
These situations move fast. Those who risk their lives to save others are nothing other than heroic, Hipkins said.
He said it's an ongoing police situation and there is limited information he can provide.
Hipkins will leave shortly leave for Auckland to meet with Police Commissioner Andrew Coster who will want to be on the scene
The Government has spoken to FIFA organisers and the tournament will occur as planned.
"This appears to be the actions of one individual," Hipkins said.
Aucklanders and others watching around the world can be assured police have neutralised threat, Hipkins said.
Hipkins does not know if a police officer was killed.
10:25am - Describing the situation, he said the offender had pump action shotgun.
He moved through the building, discharging as he went. At the upper level, he contained himself in an elevator. Shots were fired and he was found shortly afterwards, Hipkins said.
"Thanks to our brave men and women of police," Hipkins said.
10:23am - Prime Minister Chris Hipkins said a witness called police about the shooting and officers arrived about four minutes later.
Hipkins confirmed six people were injured including police and have been taken to Auckland Hospital.
He also confirmed two people are dead plus the offender.
There is no National security risk and no change to New Zealand's national security risk level, Hipkins said.
10:21am - The Prime Minister has arrived is speaking.
10:16am - Prime Minister Chris Hipkins is expected to speak in the Beehive at about 10:20am, he's running about five minutes late.
You can watch the press conference in the video above and we will have the updates here.
10:15am - Police have also confirmed the shooting in downtown Auckland is not a national security risk.
10:12am - Police have previously confirmed three people have died following the major situation in downtown Auckland.
You can read all about it here.
10:10am - Prime Minister Chris Hipkins will hold a press conference about the Auckland shooting in about five minutes.
Newshub will livestream the press conference, from the Beehive, which is expected to start at about 10.15am.
10:08am - Auckland Girl's Grammar has confirmed all their students are safe and accounted for following the major situation in downtown Auckland.
"We have also spoken to a person from Deloitte's who is looking after a number of our students who are being transported back to school," the school said on social media.
10:04am - "Shocked by the incident" - NZ Football
NZ Football says they're "shocked" by the incident in the Auckland CBD.
"We can confirm all of the Football Ferns team and staff are safe but we will not be able to comment further while details are still emerging. Please refer to New Zealand Police for further information."
10am - Another eyewitness has told AM about the chaotic situation that unfolded in downturn Auckland.
Eyewitness Isabelle, who is a cleaner at Commercial Bay Precinct, told AM she arrived in downtown Auckland at about 7:15am.
"When I came out from the train station, everything was still quiet and I didn't see any police cars," she said.
"I went straight to our office to prepare some stuff. When the next person arrived at about 7:30-7:40am that's when she told me there were lots of police cars coming in."
She said about 10 minutes later her building was evacuated.
"This place is always an alarmed area because we have so many cheeky people coming inside our building so I'm not really surprised," she told AM.
"But then the kids on the ground floor were shouting, that's when we were alarmed because they were asked to come out of the building ASAP.
"Thats when I started putting my stuff down, we were asked to come out of the building and everyone was asked to evacuate in a fast way."
9:53am - Here is a map of where the situation is unfolding in downtown Auckland.
9:50am - Prime Minister Chris Hipkins will hold a press conference about the Auckland shooting very shortly. Newshub will livestream his press conference, from the Beehive, expected to start at about 10:15am.
9:46am - Here is the latest from police:
Police have confirmed three people have died, one of them being the shooter.
Attribute to Acting Superintendent Sunny Patel, Relieving Auckland District Commander:
Police have contained a serious incident that unfolded at a construction site in Auckland’s CBD this morning.
Multiple injuries have been reported and at this stage we can confirm two people have died. The male offender is also deceased.
This incident unfolded after reports of a person discharging a firearm inside the site on lower Queen Street at around 7.22am.
A significant number of Police responded and cordoned off the area. The Police Eagle helicopter was also deployed and provided oversight.
The offender has moved through the building site and continued to discharge his firearm.
Upon reaching the upper levels of the building, the male has contained himself within the elevator shaft and our staff have attempted to engage with him.
Further shots were fired from the male and he was located deceased a short time later.
Details around what has exactly occurred are still emerging and Police will continue to provide updates around injuries and the circumstances.
What has unfolded is understandably alarming and we are reassuring the public that this incident has been contained and is an isolated incident.
We can also advise that this is not a national security risk.
Police are now commencing an investigation into what has occurred this morning.
Cordons remain in place and we are continuing to ask the public to stay away from the area as our work continues.
Updates will continue to be provided this morning and Police will also be fronting an update to media this afternoon.
9:44am - 'Surely it'll be fine, this is New Zealand'
An eyewitness has revealed her shock when she figured out the magnitude of what was unfolding in downtown Auckland.
"I thought surely it'll be fine, this is New Zealand," eyewitness Kate Gregan told AM.
"I thought I'd just jump out of my car and start walking towards my office, which is directly opposite where the shooting happened."
She described hearing two "very loud bangs"
"It was shocking really, you don't expect that to happen. It was quite terrifying to see the Police frightened as well. They definitely seemed really panicked."
9:38am - Auckland deputy mayor Desley Simpson told AM the major situation is still unfolding.
"I think our police need to have a huge amount of congratulations. They were quickly on site and responding to the situation.
"Our message to Aucklanders is to avoid the city centre."
She described the situation as serious.
"It couldn't happen at a worse time being part of a world stage today- the opening of the Women's FIFA World Cup. This is an unusual incident but police and emergency services are handling it well."
9:33am - 'Awful situation' - Simon Bridges
Auckland Business Chamber chief executive Simon Bridges says "it's an awful situation" for everyone involved.
"As a worker in the CBD, I can hear near-constant sirens this morning as armed police and other emergency services people deal with an alleged gunman near Britomart," Bridges said on social media.
"A heartfelt thank you to police officers and other services workers doing their job on this today.
"Avoid the Lower Queen Street area. Thinking of all caught up in any way by this awful situation, including all affected business people."
9:29am - The situation has caused major disruption to downtown Auckland.
Parts of the CBD are closed, Britomart Station is closed and trains are being diverted. The Auckland Ferry Building is also closed. Commuters are being told to stay away from the area.
9:27am - You can watch AM's live coverage of the major situation unfolding in downtown Auckland in the video above.
9:26am - All ferry services have been cancelled and buses through downtown Auckland have been detoured.
Reporter Isobel Ewing told AM the atmosphere is fairly calm.
"The atmosphere is fairly calm but there is no point coming to this part of the city, definitely don't do that," she said.
9:22am - 'Distressing situation'
Heart of City chief executive Viv Beck said it's a very "distressing situation" for everyone.
“This is a distressing situation for everybody, and particularly for those directly involved," Beck said.
"Given this is only unfolding, this is a police matter and best for them to comment on the details. It has been positive to see the rapid and significant police response, which will help give reassurance to people in the area right now.”
9:20am - 'Very gut wrenching'
An eyewitness told Newshub about the major situation unfolding in downtown Auckland.
"This morning, I got off the Half Moon Bay ferry," a witness told Newshub.
"There was rumours circled among people that got off the boat that there was a hostage situation.
"Very gut wrenching to look at."
9:15am - There are reports at least two people have been killed, one is the gunman according to Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown, it is unknown who the other is.
Newshub saw a man being carried from the building with blood on his clothes, it is believed he was a policeman.
9:11am - Newshub understands police are investigating reports the shooter was a man in his 20s, a worker wearing an electronic bracelet who came in with a shotgun. People thought he was joking until he opened fire.
9:10am - Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown told Newshub it's a "very scary situation".
"This is a scary situation for Aucklanders on their Thursday morning commute to work," Brown said.
"Please remain calm and follow the instructions of police and emergency services. Stay at home and avoid travel into the city centre."
Brown told Newshub Auckland Transport has told him that there is a full cordon in the area.
"They are in the process of diverting trains away from Britomart, downtown is closed, ferries won’t be docking and bus diversions are also in place," he said.
"I am monitoring the situation closely and seeking more information from police."
9:07am - Newshub understands the shooter was a 24-year-old man working at Commercial Bay, who took a shotgun into his workplace.
9:05am - Newshub cameras previously captured a man being carried from the scene by police, visibly covered in blood from the chest.
You can read more about this here.
9:03am - An eyewitness told AM he saw police going floor by floor in the building in Commercial Bay.
"As the police came into the under-construction Deloitte building, we did see them going floor to floor and eventually to the top," eyewitness Greg Hackett told AM.
"We don't exactly know what happened but there were gun shots that we could hear from our building as well.
"We were mostly watching from about 8am as the police filed in in great numbers."
8:54am - Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown told TVNZ he understood "the shooter's actually dead".
But when asked if that was confirmed by police, he said: "They don't need me bothering them".
"That's what I think - that's what I have heard. No one's actually sure of that."
8:52am - Prime Minister Chris Hipkins has cancelled his travel to Hamilton and is on his way back to the Beehive.
He will be briefed by officials on the latest information regarding the major situation in the Auckland CBD and will provide comments to the media following that.
8:50am - Hato Hone St John have just released a statement saying multiple are injured.
"Hato Hone St John was notified of an incident on Queen Street, Auckland, at 7.20am," St John said.
"Multiple vehicles have been dispatched. Ambulance crews have treated three patients with serious injuries, and three patients with moderate injuries. More details will be provided as they come to hand."
8:46am - Reporter Nick Truebridge told AM he's spoken to several witnesses who said they've heard "a flurry of gunshots".
"There are some pretty stressed out people around," he said.
8:42am - The police eagle helicopter has now landed after circling earlier but there are still many police officers trying to keep the public calm.
"We havent heard any other gunshots since we crossed to you earlier," reporter Emma Olsen told AM.
Olsen heard gunshots at about 8am and then about five minutes later the bloodied police officer came out.
"We haven't seen police officers going into any other building apart from the one above commercial bay," she said.
Members of the public and armed police officers have been seen running along Quay Street.
"As you can see, it's completely blocked off. We believe it's contained to the Commercial Bay precicnt," reporter Nick Truebridge told AM.
"Evacuated people have been taken into surrounding bulidings, including the ferry terminal.
"The city centre is completely in lockdown."
8:34am - Auckland Transport has just released a statement on the unfolding incident.
"Lower Hobson St, Quay St, Lower Albert St, Customs St between Queen and Lower Albert Roads have been closed due to an emergency services incident outside Britomart Station.
"All buses running through this area will need to be detoured until further notice. All ferries have also been cancelled."
8:33am - Newshub understands two people have been hurt.
8:32am - AM co-host Laura Tupou told the show Auckland is hosting the FIFA World Cup opening match tonight and many teams are staying in hotels near to this incident.
She added the fan zone is just down the road from this.
Newshub understands members of the public have been escorted into buildings around Quay St, including the ferry terminal.
Several gunshots have been heard in the area.
"We saw construction workers coming out of the building. When I look up to where they were hiding behind the bollards earlier, they are no longer there. Hopefully that means they've all been evacuated from the building."
Three ambulances are on the scene outside the building.
8:29am - Police have just released anew statement on the incident unfolding in downtown Auckland.
"The serious incident in Auckland CBD this morning is currently contained to a building in lower Queen Street, which is under construction," police said.
"Police ask all members of the public to avoid the lower Queen Street area and for those in downtown inner-city buildings to remain inside their buildings at this time.
This is a significant incident with multiple emergency services responding. A large Police presence will remain in the area. Police will provide a further update as soon as we are in a position to do so."
8:27am - MP for Auckland central Chloe Swarbrick urged Aucklanders to avoid travelling to or through downtown Auckland city centre.
"If you are in the area, please stay indoors. Emergency services are responding to a serious unfolding incident," she said.
"I am in touch with the front-line and more information will be shared as appropriate and necessary."
8:25am - A witness told Newshub he heard multiple gunshots, in quick succession, coming from the Commercial Bay.
8:23am - Olsen told AM she could hear yelling and could see a person covered in blood.
"I can hear yelling. As you can see over here, someone, he is all bloodied, being held by police. He's in a blue t-shirt and there's blood down his chest," she said.
"He's being put onto the ground, roped up (tourniquet) and it looks like this is definitely a police office. He's being bandaged up.
"It looks as though something has gone on inside and he is hurt."
She said it's believed the incident happened on the 13th floor
8:20am - Olsen told AM a police car crashed due to the number of vehicles in the area and added that construction workers are still hiding behind concrete pillars.
"Obviously something is going on up there," she said.
Olsen said construction workers are still on 14th and 15th floor and being told to stay put.
"I've never seen something on this scale before," Olsen said.
She said police are all armed and "it's definitely a scary sight".
Olsen said the closures in the area include: Quay St, Lower Queen St, Lower Albert, Lower Hobson, and part of Customs St East
She told AM "at about 8.08am we heard gunshots".
8:14am - Reporter Emma Olsen told AM a serious incident is unfolding in Commercial Bay in Auckland.
She said armed police are responding and the public is asked to stay away and stay indoors.
"I've never seen so many police cars in one place before," she said.
There are over 30 police cars in the area and the armed offenders squad ran into a building just before 8am.
Olsen said 30-40 police officers went into the building and she hasn't seen any come out.
Construction workers have been evacuated from all Commercial Bay buildings.
"Several members of the public standing around still, filming," she said.
8:09am - Deputy Mayor of Auckland Desley Simpson is urging Aucklanders to stay home and avoid the city.
"We anticipate traffic will be backed up, so please avoid travel to the area," she said in a statement.
"Still waiting for information from the Police, and will provide an update when we can.
"Still waiting for information from the Police, and will provide an update when we can."
8:06am - Newshub understands members of the public have been escorted into buildings around Quay St for their own safety.
A witness said other people have been taken to the ferry terminal. They have heard what they believe to be several gunshots.
8:05am - Photos from the scene show a large police presence in downtown Auckland.
8:02am - Reporter Emma Olsen told AM workers have been evacuated from the Commercial Bay building.
"It looks as though it's on the 13th or 14th floor. If you look up, you can see construction workers hiding behind concrete bollards," she said.
"Earlier I saw people on the 13th floor, below the people on the 14th floor, and they started running across the floor. Unsure exactly what is going on up there, but one of the workers who was inside told me they saw someone with a gun."
