A New Zealand police officer was killed and another seriously injured in a tragic incident in Nelson during the early hours of New Year’s Day. The officers were conducting routine foot patrols in a parking lot when a car struck them at high speed.
The driver, a 32-year-old man, was arrested at the scene after also ramming a police car. He has been charged and is set to appear in court on Friday.
Tragic Loss of Senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming
Senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming, a widely respected officer with 38 years of frontline service, succumbed to her injuries in the hospital hours after the attack.
Police Commissioner Richard Chambers described her as “a beautiful soul and a cherished member of the Nelson community.” Fleming was also a devoted daughter, mother, and wife.
Her colleague, Senior Sergeant Adam Ramsay, remains in serious condition but is expected to make a full recovery.
A third officer, who was in the rammed police car, suffered a concussion. Two members of the public were also injured, one while attempting to assist the officers.
Details of the Incident
The attack occurred at Buxton Square, a downtown Nelson location near where New Year’s Eve celebrations had concluded just hours earlier. According to Commissioner Chambers, the driver’s actions appeared deliberate, but no motive has yet been established.
“This was a senseless act by an individual determined to cause harm,” Chambers said. “Lyn and Adam were working to keep people safe during a night of celebration. Their efforts ended in a heartbreaking act of violence.”
Condemnation and National Impact
New Zealand Police Minister Mark Mitchell condemned the attack, calling it “a cowardly and targeted act.”
The incident has shaken the country, where the killing of on-duty police officers is rare. The last such death occurred in 2020 when an officer was shot by a fleeing driver. Since 1890, only 34 officers have died in criminal acts while on duty.
Community Mourning
The Nelson community has been left reeling from the loss of Fleming, a beloved figure who dedicated decades to protecting her community. Tributes have poured in from colleagues, residents, and government officials.
The 32-year-old man charged in the attack will face justice in court on Friday, as the community continues to grieve the senseless loss of a dedicated public servant.
