A man was shot and killed in East Auckland on Monday morning. Neighbors described him as a “kind grandfather.” Police found the injured man in a courier van at around 6:45 am, but he died at the scene. He was retired and lived with his family, often seen gardening or playing with his grandchildren. A neighbor expressed confusion over why such a nice man would be shot.
At about 6:40 am, residents heard five gunshots. Police arrived quickly and set up cordons at the scene. Detective Inspector Shaun Vicker said there would be more police presence in the area as they investigate and talk to witnesses. The man’s neighbor thought he did not work and believed someone else drove the courier van. Now, they are worried about safety, especially since the street is near Elm Park School, used by many families.
Another neighbor, Amanda Craig, heard the shots while getting ready for work. She described the sound as quick and distinct from car backfires. Her husband left for work shortly after and noticed only one police car initially. Craig, who has lived in the area for nearly 20 years, said this was the first shooting in their quiet neighborhood and that it has left residents feeling scared and unsettled.
Many are worried about whether the shooter is still nearby and if the attack was targeted or random. Until these questions are answered, the community feels unsafe.
