New Zealand is mourning the loss of Senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming, a highly respected police officer with 38 years of front-line service, who was tragically killed in Nelson on New Year’s Day. Fleming and Senior Sergeant Adam Ramsey were struck by a vehicle in Buxton Square. Ramsey remains in a serious but stable condition in hospital as he embarks on his recovery.
The incident also resulted in injuries to two members of the public: a woman suffered a broken arm and a man, who intervened to help police, sustained a shoulder injury. A third officer was treated for a concussion and subsequently released from the hospital.
The driver of the vehicle, a 32-year-old man, was apprehended at the scene after being tasered and faces serious charges in the Nelson District Court. Police Commissioner Richard Chambers condemned the act as an “unprovoked and senseless” attack and emphasized the support being provided to the officers and their families during this challenging time.
Tributes have poured in for Fleming, with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Police Minister Mark Mitchell, and Nelson MP Rachel Boyack expressing their sorrow and a sense of loss. Fleming was deeply involved in the local community, particularly in sports, and coached netball at Nelson College for Girls, where she was regarded as a cornerstone of the program.
In Fleming’s honor, flowers have been laid outside the Albion Square police station. Nelson’s Mayor Nick Smith has invited locals to join in the gesture of support. A condolence book is available at Nelson Cathedral, alongside a flag flown at half-mast in tribute. The community plans to hold a candlelight vigil at the Cathedral, where a special Sunday service will include a two-minute silence and the singing of the National Anthem.
This incident marks the 34th police officer death in New Zealand in the line of duty. Police Association President Chris Cahill acknowledged the inherent risks officers face, highlighting that while assaults are not uncommon, the level of violence faced in this incident was unexpected.
A comprehensive investigation into Fleming’s death is underway, supported by officers from other regions due to the emotional impact on local staff. The police force has expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from the community and iwi across Te Tau Ihu, who have performed blessings at the site of the tragedy.
Fire and Emergency Nelson Marlborough District Commander Grant Haywood echoed the deep sense of loss felt, extending sympathies to the families of those affected and lauding the police for their dedication to public safety. The Nelson community continues to stand in solidarity with the police force as they navigate the aftermath of this tragic event.
