A man accused of murdering Senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming by driving a car into her will face the Nelson District Court today.
The incident occurred in Nelson’s Buxton Square at around 2 a.m. on 1 January. Fleming, a veteran officer with 38 years of service, was struck alongside two colleagues. She succumbed to her injuries, marking a tragic milestone as New Zealand’s first policewoman killed in the line of duty.
Senior Sergeant Adam Ramsey, who was also hit, remains in a serious but stable condition. Another officer was treated for a concussion and released from the hospital. Additionally, two members of the public sustained injuries, including a woman with a broken arm.
The accused, a 32-year-old man, faces multiple charges, including:
- Murder and attempted murder
- Two counts of assault using a vehicle as a weapon
- Two counts of wounding with intent (reckless disregard)
- Dangerous driving
- Driving while disqualified
Police Commissioner Richard Chambers calls the death “tragic and senseless,” stating, “I know we are all struggling to understand why this has happened.” Detective Inspector Lex Bruning has urged anyone with videos or eyewitness accounts to come forward to assist the investigation.
Fleming was widely respected for her dedication to frontline service, leaving a legacy of commitment and courage in her community.
