‘Darkest day’ in summary
Gunmen opened fire on two Christchurch mosques. Three people were in custody.
MOSQUE SHOOTINGS
Police were alerted to a shooting at a mosque on Deans Ave, near Hagley Park, at 1.53pm. It is believed the shooting began about 1.40pm. There were up to 500 people in the mosque. A second shooting at Linwood mosque on Aldwins Rd was reported about half an hour later. A witness said he heard gunshots at the Linwood mosque at 1.45pm. That would be just five minutes after the Deans Ave shooting.
SUSPECTS IN CUSTODY
Three people were in custody.
VICTIM COUNT
Forty-nine people were confirmed dead. Canterbury District Health Board chief executive David Meates said 48 people with gunshot wounds were being treated at Christchurch Hospital, while others had turned up at other health facilities in the community.
CAR BOMBS
Two Improvised explosive devices, or IEDs were found attached to vehicles and were defused by New Zealand Defence Force staff.
CITY IN LOCKDOWN
Residents in Christchurch were told to stay inside their homes. Most schools in the city were in lockdown and students were not released for nearly three hours after school ended.
CRICKET TEAM SAFE
Members of the Bangladesh cricket team were heading into the Deans Ave mosque when the first attack occurred. Coaching staff confirmed no team members were hurt. The third test against New Zealand was cancelled.
MESSAGE FROM QUEEN
Late last night, Queen Elizabeth sent her condolences: ‘‘I have been deeply saddened by the appalling events in Christchurch. Prince Philip and I send our condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives. I also pay tribute to the emergency services and volunteers who are providing support to those who have been injured. At this tragic time, my thoughts and prayers are with all New Zealanders. – Elizabeth R’’