WELLINGTON, New Zealand — In a tragic incident on New Year’s Day, two police officers in New Zealand were struck by a vehicle while they were on foot patrol, resulting in the death of one officer and serious injuries to the other, as reported by the country’s police chief. This shocking act has highlighted the relative rarity of such deadly assaults against law enforcement in New Zealand. Senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming became the first female officer in the nation’s history to be killed on duty due to a criminal act.

The incident occurred early on Wednesday, when the driver collided with the officers “at speed” during a routine examination of a parking lot. Following the initial impact, the driver further escalated the situation by ramming a police vehicle. Fleming succumbed to her injuries in a local hospital several hours later.

A 32-year-old suspect was apprehended shortly after the incident, which took place around 2 a.m. local time. Authorities have charged him with multiple offenses, including murder, attempted murder, using a vehicle to commit assault, and operating a vehicle while disqualified.

The second officer who was struck is currently in serious condition, but authorities expect a full recovery. Additionally, a third officer present in the police car that was rammed is reported to have sustained a concussion, along with two civilians who were injured, one of whom was assisting the wounded officers.

In a statement, Police Commissioner Richard Chambers condemned the “senseless act of an individual who appears to have been determined to cause harm,” although he did not provide specific details regarding a motive for the assault. Chambers mentioned that there were no prior indications suggesting such an incident might occur.

Police Minister Mark Mitchell described the assault as a “cowardly attack” against the officers, while Prime Minister Christopher Luxon expressed that it was a “devastating day” for both the police and the wider community.

The incident took place in a bustling area of Nelson, a city with a population of approximately 55,000, not far from where New Year’s Eve festivities had just concluded a few hours earlier. Prior to this event, the last time a police officer was killed on duty in New Zealand occurred in 2020 when an officer was shot by a fleeing suspect. Historical records indicate that since 1890, 33 officers have lost their lives through criminal acts while performing their duties.

Fleming had dedicated 38 years to her career in law enforcement and was also well-known for her long-term role as a netball coach at a local high school for girls. Chambers reflected on her legacy, stating, “She’s a mother, she’s a wife and she’s a well-known and highly respected member of the Nelson community.”

The man charged in connection with the incident is scheduled to appear in court on Friday. In New Zealand, a murder conviction results in an automatic life sentence, with judges determining a non-parole period of at least a decade.