A Tongan grandfather was reportedly the victim of a deadly shooting on Monday morning in the East Auckland suburb of Pakuranga.
A relative close to the family, who wished to remain anonymous, has shared the tragic incident with Kaniva News.
Meanwhile, relatives and what appeared to be family members have identified the victim on social media as Saia Kokohu Vi.
“RIP Dad Saia Kokohu Vi , ofa lahi atu”, a Facebook poster, who identified the deceased as their father, wrote in Tongan expressing their love for him.
“Ofa lahi atu Saia Kokohu Vi keke toka he nonga he aho ta’eiloa mo fkloloma . Ofa atu ki he uitou moe famili hono kotoa”, another poster identified the victim and offered condolences to the wife and their family.
Police descended on Marvon Downs Ave in Pakuranga, after locals reported hearing a series of gunshots about 6.45am.
One person was found injured inside a vehicle at the intersection of Marvon Downs Ave and Pixie Pl and died at the scene.
“There will be a significant Police presence in the area this morning, as we work to find out what has occurred and who is responsible,” a police spokesperson said.
Detective Inspector Kerry Watson told media from the cordon that this was a “critical incident”.
He was unable to confirm any injuries but said there were going to be a lot of police resources in the area.
“It’s going to take us some time to piece together what happened in the events that led up to this critical incident.”
Pakuranga residents reported on social media they had seen at least 14 police cars and a number of armed officers. Ambulances were also in attendance and the police Eagle helicopter was in the air overhead.
Armed police are standing guard on the entrances to the street and a section has been taped off.
Local school Elm Park said a “strong police presence” has responded to the incident.
“Police have responded to, please note there is no immediate danger to Elm Park School,” school principal Sarah Baleicakau said in a message to the school community.
“I have spoken to the police this morning and have been fully assured the school can remain open,” Baleicakau added.
Watson said they would be focused on making sure children got to school safely.
