Driver runs down 2 New Zealand police officers, killing 1
CBSDEC 27 2024
New Zealand Police Officer Killed in New Year's Day Car Ramming
Above: Nelson, New Zealand, police officers hold a minute silence for the death of senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming on New Year's Eve during game three of the Men's T20 series between New Zealand and Sri Lanka at Saxton Field, on Jan. 2, 2025. Image copyright: Evan Barnes/Stringer/Getty Images Sport via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
This incident, especially coming amid other car attacks across the world, including the US, is a tremendous tragedy. It's reasonable for the public to question how someone could so easily take the life of a beloved officer like Fleming. Thankfully, the man likely responsible is already in custody and will receive swift justice.
Narrative B
The tragic Nelson car-ramming attack is symptomatic of a broader issue where violence is increasingly seen as acceptable for some causes, as evidenced by violent protests. Policing, hampered by inadequate resources and training, has failed to counter this trend — exposing deeper systemic problems in adequately funding law enforcement.