Police have launched an investigation after a person was shot in the stomach in Palmerston North last Sunday.
The person was shot following "an altercation" between two groups of people on Brentwood Ave, police said. Both groups arrived in vehicles shortly before the confrontation at about 4:30pm.
"This happened in broad daylight and we know there were a number of people travelling through the Brentwood, Farnham and Croyden Avenue areas at the time," acting Detective Senior Sergeant Dave Thompson said.
"We believe some members of the public pulled their vehicles over and may have witnessed this incident."
Thompson said people fled Brentwood Ave at high speed, overtook vehicles and drove dangerously.
"I acknowledge this event has been unsettling for the local Highbury community," he said.
"I want to reassure you all that while firearms events always present an unacceptable risk, I do not believe there is an ongoing risk to the general public.
"The investigation team is working to identify those involved and needs the community's help to solve this investigation."
He added the victim is reportedly in a critical but stable condition in Auckland Hospital.
Any witnesses to the incident are urged to contact Manawatu Police on 105 and quote file number 200907/3904 if they have any information. Alternatively, anyone who wants to provide information anonymously can do so via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
