One person in custody after eight-hour standoff in Christchurch

December 11, 2023
Police at incident scene.

Police in Christchurch were in a standoff yesterday afternoon with a person who refused to leave a house.

Officers were called to the address on Beatrice Place in Avonhead after receiving reports "that indicated concern for a person's welfare".

The person reportedly had a gun, and police negotiators were "in dialogue with them".

It is understood the person was alone at the address.

"Locals are advised to avoid the area while police work to resolve the situation safely and cordons are in place at the scene," a police spokesperson said. Some residents near the property were evacuated as a precaution.

The spokesperson said: "We know this will be unsettling for the community and appreciate those following police instruction while staff respond to the situation."

At about 11pm, Superintendent Lane Todd said the incident had ended with one person in custody and no injuries reported.

"Enquiries are ongoing and there will continue to be a police presence, including cordons, in the area," Todd added.

"Police would like to thank the residents of Beatrice Place and the surrounding area for their patience while we worked to resolve this matter safely.

"I'd also like to acknowledge the work of police staff in attendance, including the Police Negotiation Team who worked for over eight hours to achieve this negotiated resolution safely for all parties."

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