A New Zealand police officer has died after a driver deliberately drove into two officers on foot patrol in Nelson. The attack happened in the early hours of New Year’s Day. Senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming, 62, succumbed to her injuries at Nelson Hospital. She was the first female New Zealand police officer killed in the line of duty.
KEY POINTS
- Senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming, 62, died at Nelson Hospital. The second officer sustained injuries but remains in stable condition.
- The driver fled the scene but police arrested him nearby. He now faces murder and other charges.
- Police seized the suspect’s car after linking it to a separate New Year’s Eve incident.
New Zealand police: first on-duty death of a woman officer
The attack happened around 2am on Jan. 1 in central Nelson, on South Island. The officers were on routine foot patrol. A vehicle suddenly veered toward them at speed. The driver then left the scene.
Police arrested a 32-year-old man nearby a short time later. They also charged him with attempted murder, driving at police and other offences. He will appear in Nelson District Court on Jan. 3.
The Independent Police Conduct Authority will investigate. Police Commissioner Richard Chambers called the death devastating. He also praised Fleming’s nearly four decades of service. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the country owed her a debt of gratitude.
Background and context
Fleming joined the police in 1992. She worked in Nelson for much of her career. Colleagues described her as dedicated and deeply respected. She leaves behind a family.
Police deaths in the line of duty are rare in New Zealand. The last officer killed was Senior Constable Matthew Hunt, shot in Auckland in 2020. The last deliberate vehicle attack on officers claimed two lives in 2006.
What happens next
The accused will remain in custody until his court appearance. The police investigation continues. Nelson’s mayor has called for a community gathering to honour Fleming.
Police have set up a condolence book at the Nelson station. Members of the public can leave messages of support there.
Sources: New Zealand Police statements; Independent Police Conduct Authority.
