Police are searching for a 30-year-old man after an officer was shot at in south Auckland this morning.
Detective Inspector Uraia Vakaruru says a vehicle allegedly used in the incident was found at a Manurewa address earlier today, with police now looking for a man called Patrick Dixon in relation to the incident.
The incident unfolded when a senior officer signalled to a car to pull over around 3:50am after it was seen acting suspiciously on Friedlanders Rd, in Manurewa, says Det Insp Vakaruru.
As the officer got out of his patrol car, a passenger leaned out the window and fired two shots using what is believed to be a sawn-off shotgun.
The driver then sped away from the scene, leading to a short pursuit which was abandoned after three more shots were fired on Winsford St.
None of the shots hit the officer, but a number hit the patrol car.
Police say the entire encounter lasted less than five minutes.
Counties Manukau District Commander John Tims says situations like these are "among the most volatile and dangerous" that police encounter.
"I commend the officer who responded courageously to keep the community safe from these armed and dangerous offenders.
"The officer involved is doing well considering the circumstances and is being well supported by his colleagues and our welfare services," he says.
Police say Dixon is of Maori descent, of medium build and around 177cm tall. He has a tribal tattoo on his left arm and another tattoo on the left side of his neck.
Dixon has warrants out for his arrest regarding the unlawful possession of a firearm.
Anyone with any information on Dixon can contact police on (09) 261 1300 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Newshub.
