Police have spoken to media this afternoon about the investigation into a mass brawl last night that left two people dead - confirming it involved gang members and started after two uninvited guests arrived at a 21st birthday party.
About 100 people were involved in a massive fight on Lytton Road in Elgin that left two dead and three in a critical condition, police said.
Inspector Darren Paki said police received a number of calls about a “mass disorder” occurring at an address in Gisborne at 11.30pm.
A large fight had broken out onto the street and additional staff as well as the Armed Offenders Squad was called in for back-up.
“We understand the fight had broken out after two uninvited guests arrived at a whānau gathering,” Paki said.
Two victims were located upon police arrival and staff attempted to provide emergency medical assistance, but both men were later confirmed deceased, said Paki.
Three others are currently in hospital with injuries believed to be caused by a stabbing.
“Police from around the district and surrounding areas have been called to boost our staffing numbers for reassurance,” Paki said.
One person of interest was arrested at the scene and is assisting with police inquiries. Paki said police believed there were gang members involved in the altercation, but that it was not a gang conflict.
Also speaking to media this afternoon, Police Minister Mark Mitchell said his thoughts were with the families of the deceased men for their tragic loss.
“I want to acknowledge the police, who have had an outstanding response,” Mitchell said.
The minister said he understood police attempted to perform CPR to revive the two victims.
“I came over immediately as the minister of police to, number one, support the community, support our police and of course support the mayor and her council in what is a difficult time for the area,” Mitchell said.
Gisborne Mayor Rehette Stoltz said she had been receiving updates from the police chief about the situation and investigation.
Stoltz described it as an “absolute tragedy”.
“It is really sad and our hearts break for the whānau involved,” Stoltz said.
The mayor reassured the public that Gisborne is a “safe place” and police were in control of the situation.
“I do want to reassure everyone please look after each other, this is a distressing time for our Gisborne community so be kind and reach out,” she said.
Stoltz said while the hospital was previously in lockdown, the emergency department is currently open for those needing care. There would be a police presence “just to make sure everyone feels safe”.
Mitchell said New Zealand has seen far too much violent crime involving firearms and in this case, knives.
“Our Government is fully focused on making sure that we get on top of that.”
A full scene examination was expected to be completed today.
The two deceased men’s bodies remain at the scene. Paki would not reveal which gang was involved in the incident.
Paki said they were working closely with leaders in the Gisborne community to reassure that the community feels safe.
“This is very clearly a distressing situation for the community and particularly for the families now grieving loved ones. What should have been a happy occasion for this family, fuelled by alcohol, has turned into an ugly and an awful tragedy for the people involved,” police said.
A 45-year-old man and 21-year-old man both remain in hospital in a serious but stable condition with suspected stab wounds.
Meanwhile a 30-year-old man is in a critical condition in the intensive care unit.
“Due to the nature of this incident, police have a presence at the emergency department of Gisborne Hospital, where access to the emergency department is being managed,” a police statement read.
The hospital’s emergency department remains open to those needing care. - NZ Herald
