To be attributed to Superintendent Bruce Bird, Waikato District Commander.
Police acknowledge the Independent Police Conduct Authority report which finds the fatal shooting of Michael Taylor at Paeroa on 10 June 2016 was justified.
Mr Taylor was shot after he advanced on a police car, armed with a sickle and machete. After throwing one of the weapons at the car, he moved to strike the front passenger window with the other weapon.
The officer seated in the front passenger seat, who was unable to escape or protect himself, fired four shots at Mr Taylor, three of which struck him.
The Authority notes that the officer who fired the shots believed on reasonable grounds that Mr Taylor was about to kill or seriously injure him.
This has been tough, traumatic and challenging for all those involved. On behalf of NZ Police I acknowledge Mr Taylor’s family and extend our deepest sympathies to them.
The incident was also challenging for our staff – not only those that were involved on the day but also our investigators and the staff in the wider Paeroa community. I commend our staff for the professionalism they have demonstrated throughout.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre