Four people injured in stabbing frenzy
Four members of the public have been horrifically stabbed in what police have described as an “isolated” incident.
The alleged offender randomly stopped four people in Murrays Bay on Auckland's North Shore about 11.18am on Thursday before stabbing them with “quite a large knife”.
Another member of the public stepped in and stopped the alleged attacker with a clutch before police apprehended him.
Luckily, none of the victims were severely injured but are being treated in hospital.
Waitematā district commander Superintendent Naila Hassan commended the random person’s efforts, saying it could have been “a lot worse”.
"This was an isolated incident," she said.
"This offender was on the move, he was on foot, it started in Murrays Bay [where he stabbed members of the public], and he continued to walk through to Mairangi Bay.
"A number of members of the public were following him and eventually one of them intervened.
"It could've been a lot worse and that's why I really need to acknowledge the bravery of those members of the public that intervened to bring this to a conclusion."
Superintendent Hassan gave a special shoutout to the members of the public who helped prevent the situation from getting any worse.
"I really need to acknowledge the bravery of the members of the public who intervened," she said.
A thank you to the public was also released on the North Shore, Rodney & West Auckland Police Facebook page.
“We would like to acknowledge members of our community for their actions, who put aside their own personal safety to get involved in the events earlier today,” the statement read.
“Whilst Police generally discourage intervening, we greatly appreciated their efforts today which undoubtedly prevented further harm.
“We also want to thank those who called emergency services.
“Understandably the community will be shaken by what has occurred today and I would like to reassure them that this was an isolated incident and we have the person responsible in custody.
“There will be an increased Police presence across the community as a result of what has occurred.
“We would like to thank the community for their patience as scene examinations and area canvases taking place.”
The alleged attacker remains in North Shore Hospital under police guard where he is being treated for his injuries. He is yet to be charged.
Image: RNZ