Mike Bain/cvnznews.com
A quiet Friday afternoon in Nelson was shattered after a stolen shotgun triggered a chain of events that left two people dead and a community deeply shaken.
Police say the incident began around midday, when a shotgun was taken from a shop on Quarantine Rd in Annesbrook. The offender left the area in a vehicle before officers arrived. Minutes later, police were called to Parkers Rd, where a man and a woman were found dead.
Superintendent Blair Macdonald said the pair appeared to be known to each other, and police were supporting their families. He stressed the incident was isolated and that no one else was being sought.
“This was a deeply distressing event,” Macdonald said. “We understand the impact on those who witnessed it, and we’re providing support where needed.”
Cordons were placed on Quarantine Rd and Parkers Rd, with officers also attending a property on Sanctuary Drive in Stoke as part of the investigation. A scene guard remains in place, and residents have been told to expect a heightened police presence over the coming days.
Nelson Mayor Nick Smith said the tragedy had left many traumatised.
“Nelson prides itself on being a safe city, and this impacts us all,” Smith said. “Our hearts go out to the families of the deceased.”
Around 10 police vehicles were seen on Parkers Rd as officers worked to secure the area, set up equipment, and manage traffic. Neighbours watched from their driveways, trying to make sense of the sudden disruption. Some residents struggled to navigate road closures, while others reported seeing drones being prepared at the scene.
A nearby Mainfreight employee said staff had noticed the road being blocked but had little information.
“We’re all very intrigued about what’s going on, but we don’t know,” they said.
State Highway 6 was temporarily closed between Tāhunanui Dr and Green St, though the incident did not appear to affect airport operations.
Police are urging the public to avoid cordoned areas while the investigation continues.
