Heightened Security Measures Implemented for Women’s World Cup Opener after Tragic Auckland Shooting

In light of a fatal shooting at a construction site in downtown Auckland, security measures will be intensified leading up to the opening match of the Women’s World Cup on Thursday night. The incident occurred approximately 12 hours prior to co-host New Zealand’s game against Norway.

The shooting took place in the tourist area near the harbor ferry terminal, in close proximity to Norway’s team hotel. Maren Mjelde, the captain of the Norwegian team, stated that the sound of a hovering helicopter outside the hotel woke them up. However, Mjelde expressed confidence in the safety measures provided by FIFA and their own security officer, assuring that everyone remained calm and the team continued their preparations for the game.

Eden Park, the venue for the tournament’s opening ceremony and subsequent game, advised ticket holders to arrive early and announced an increased security presence within the precinct and across the venue. Additional traffic management measures have also been implemented.

The shooting occurred early in the morning during rush hour in New Zealand’s largest city. The perpetrator, armed with a pump-action shotgun, was found dead in an elevator. Acting Police Superintendent Sunny Patel confirmed that in addition to the three fatalities, at least four others were injured, including a police officer who is now in stable condition after being initially listed as critical.

New Zealand Football released a statement expressing shock over the incident and confirming the safety of the Football Ferns team and staff.

While New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins stated that his attendance at the opening match was under review, he emphasized that the tournament would proceed as planned. He assured the public that there was no wider national security threat, highlighting that the incident appeared to be the act of a lone individual. Hipkins also suggested the inclusion of a moment of silence during the opening ceremony.

FIFA, through a statement, assured continuous communication between its president, Gianni Infantino, and general-secretary, Fatma Samoura, with local authorities and participating teams. They stated that the opening match would proceed as scheduled, as the shooting was deemed an isolated incident unrelated to football operations.

Tourism New Zealand canceled a welcome party that was scheduled for the participating teams within the cordoned off area, where many hotels are located.

The United States women’s team hotel was also in close proximity to the shooting. The team expressed sadness over the loss of life due to gun violence and extended their thoughts to the people of Auckland/Tamaki Makaurau and Aotearoa New Zealand.

Despite the tragic incident, the month-long Women’s World Cup, featuring 32 teams and co-hosted by New Zealand and Australia, will continue as planned. Both countries have stringent gun laws, and such shootings are rare.

Peter Filopoulos, Football Australia’s head of marketing and communications, conveyed condolences to the victims and their families, expressing solidarity with New Zealand. He assured that the situation seemed contained and unrelated to the Women’s World Cup.

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AP Sports Writer Steve McMorran contributed from Wellington, New Zealand.

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