Investigations are underway after several shootings in Levin over the last two days, including one resulting in a man showing up at a healthcare centre with a gunshot wound.
Police have upped their presence in the region, following what they described as “brainless violence”.
A man was taken to Palmerston North Hospital in a serious condition after he showed up at a healthcare centre with a gunshot wound to his thigh. Manawatu Area Commander Inspector Ross Grantham said enquiries into the incident were ongoing.
The other incidents involved properties being shot at.
At 8.55am yesterday, police were called to Hinemoa St after reports that a gun was fired from a vehicle, hitting a house.
“Thankfully, nobody was injured but the occupants and neighbours were shaken by the event,” Grantham said.
A scene guard was in place overnight, and an examination of the scene continued today.
Just after 6am this morning, five shots were reported to have been heard on Mabel St.
When officers arrived, they found a shed that appeared to have been shot. A scene examination was also ongoing.
Grantham said the incidents over the last two days were “extremely concerning” and said police were working to find those responsible.
“We have put additional officers on patrol, but we need to hear from anyone who has any information that may help,” he said.
He said there would be a visible police presence in the area, as officers completed scene examinations and spoke with neighbours as well as those involved.
“At this early stage, we are still working to determine what firearm was used in the shootings targeting properties, and we don’t yet know why this happened.”
He described the incidents as “brainless violence”.
“Levin’s a caring community, and people don’t want violence like this in their town. We know this will be unsettling, and the additional officers who are on duty will be carrying out patrols across the town.”
He urged anyone with information to call the police on 105.
