Police Subdue Armed Man in Wellington Stand-Off Using Force

A tense stand-off in Wadestown, a suburb of Wellington, concluded this afternoon after police deployed multiple methods to subdue an armed man. The incident began around 12:35 PM on Anne Street, where the individual allegedly entered a property wielding a long, bladed weapon and threatened the occupants. Following an attempt to steal a vehicle, he retreated into the house when confronted by law enforcement.

Wellington District Commander Superintendent Corrie Parnell reported that the situation escalated quickly, with the suspect becoming increasingly violent despite efforts to de-escalate the encounter. “Our staff used OC spray and tasers, but when the offender continued to escalate, a single shot was fired,” Parnell stated.

As the situation intensified, the Armed Offenders Squad and police negotiators were called to the scene. A police dog was subsequently deployed, aiding in the man’s capture at approximately 14:20 PM (2:20 PM). He was transported to a local hospital with injuries, including a dog bite and a minor shoulder wound believed to have been caused by the gunshot.

Parnell characterized the incident as a “fast-moving situation involving a volatile offender.” Fortunately, no officers or civilians sustained injuries during the confrontation.

The victims of the initial burglary will receive support as authorities consider charges against the man involved. This incident highlights the challenges law enforcement faces when dealing with armed individuals and the rapid response required to protect public safety.