Two people have died following a serious firearms incident in Nelson on Friday afternoon, which police say began with the alleged theft of a shotgun from a store.
According to a report by 1News, Police were called shortly before midday after a shotgun was reportedly stolen from a store on Quarantine Rd in Annesbrook. The alleged offender is understood to have left the area in a vehicle before officers arrived.
Police were then alerted to a firearms incident on Parkers Rd, where a man and a woman were found dead a short time later.
Superintendent Blair Macdonald said initial inquiries indicated the two people knew each other.
"Initial enquiries suggest the two deceased were known to each other. We are providing the necessary support to their loved ones," as quoted by 1News.
Macdonald said police believed the incident was isolated and there was no continuing threat to the public.
"Police are now investigating the circumstances into what exactly has occurred," 1News has quoted.
Officers were also at a property on Sanctuary Dr in Stoke, while police cordons were established around Quarantine Rd, Parkers Rd and Sanctuary Dr.
"Members of the public are advised to avoid those areas, and nearby residents can expect to see an increased Police presence throughout the coming days," Macdonald said, 1News has quoted.
Police acknowledged the incident had been distressing for members of the community and said support was being provided to witnesses.
"We understand this incident was deeply distressing to members of our community, and we are providing support to those who witnessed the incident unfold. Police are not seeking anyone else in relation to this incident," as quoted by 1News.