The horrific scene unfolded at the New Windsor Dairy and Lotto shop as onlookers stood terrified from a neighbouring property. What started as an ordinary morning quickly turned into a bloodbath, when a 24-year-old man wounded two individuals in an act of unprecedented violence.
One male victim incurred critical injuries and required immediate hospitalization at Auckland City Hospital. Likewise, a woman, present at the scene, was inflicted with injuries and necessitated transport to the hospital. Police later confirmed that while the man remained critical, both victim’s conditions had stabilized, and they would continue their recovery at the hospital.
Members of the public showed commendable bravery, interceding to halt the assault and administering necessary aid to the victims. Their rapid response and proactive measures, as per Detective Inspector Glen Baldwin, possibly saved the man’s life. He urged the community to avoid engaging in self-endangering acts, while simultaneously praising their courage and swift action.
The offender, now in police custody, faces multiple charges, including intent to cause severe harm and police resistance.
A shop owner nearby offered a harrowing account of the crime, saying an individual was stabbed in the neck and cheek. The offender disregarded a woman’s plea for leaving her unharmed, focusing solely on raking in money.
Fear turned into sheer horror as three children, a mere 15, 16, and 10 years old, witnessed the incident unfold from their living room. Shell-shocked on seeing the paramedics carry an injured individual on a stretcher, they described an average-sized man in a blood-stained grey T-shirt.
Shortly, the victim’s family and friends arrived at the crime scene, their anguish palpable and overwhelming. One of the victim’s sons ran to his mother, who was situated in the ambulance. The Hato Hone St John Ambulance spokesman then confirmed the transportation of the victims.
Detective Inspector Glen Baldwin praised those first on the scene whose quick actions may have saved a life, while acknowledging the crime’s long-lasting impact on everyone involved.
In response, Dairy and Business Owners’ Group chairman, Sunny Kaushal, labelled the incident “heartbreaking,” calling to attention the government’s inaction in addressing the rampant violence. The Prime Minister echoed his sentiments, condemning the act and promising full backing to the police. Justice Minister Ginny Andersen expressed her condolences to the victims and their families, deeming this an act no New Zealander should experience. National’s police spokesman Mark Mitchell identified this as a ‘symptom’ of the permissive environment allowed by the present government while expressing sympathy for the victims and their families.
Adding to the discourse, Act’s justice spokesperson Nicole McKee emphasised the increased violence frontline workers are facing. She urged for a victim-first approach, allowing small business operators, transport workers, and security guards to work without fear. She warned of the dire consequences New Zealand would face if the senseless violence persisted.
Shockingly, this isn’t the first violent act at this location— it has a grim history of another brutal attack in 2008, when the owner was stabbed multiple times, leaving him with lasting injuries and trauma. Yet, the resilient owner refused to be victimised, resolving to carry on. His spirit mirrors the courage that embodies this resilient community.
The trauma may linger but so will an augmented police presence at New Windsor in future days, assuring the community of safety and the commitment to maintain law and order.
