Two people have been found dead after a "serious incident" in Nelson this afternoon that police say began with the alleged theft of a shotgun.
Police were called just before 12pm on Friday to the reported theft of a shotgun from a store on Quarantine Rd in Annesbrook. An offender is understood to have left the area in a vehicle before police arrived.
Superintendent Blair Macdonald said police were then alerted to a firearms incident on Parkers Rd, where a man and a woman were both found dead on arrival a short time later.
"Initial enquiries suggest the two deceased were known to each other. We are providing the necessary support to their loved ones."
Macdonald said it was an isolated incident and there was no ongoing risk to the public.
"Police are now investigating the circumstances into what exactly has occurred."
Officers were in attendance at a property on Sanctuary Dr in Stoke, with cordons established in the Quarantine Rd, Parkers Rd, and Sanctuary Dr areas.
"Members of the public are advised to avoid those areas, and nearby residents can expect to see an increased Police presence throughout the coming days," Macdonald said.
"We understand this incident was deeply distressing to members of our community, and we are providing support to those who witnessed the incident unfold. Police are not seeking anyone else in relation to this incident."
Nelson Mayor Nick Smith said the city prided itself on being safe and the tragedy impacted on all residents.
"Our hearts go out to all those affected and particularly the families of the deceased," he said.
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