Source: New Zealand Police
Commissioner Richard Chambers says today’s sentencing for the death of Senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming marks the conclusion of a long and difficult chapter following the tragic event in Nelson on New Year’s Day 2025, which profoundly affected Police, our staff, and the wider community.
This was a cowardly and senseless act and while no court outcome can undo the harm caused, we acknowledge this sentencing as an important step in the justice process.
“Lyn Fleming and Adam Ramsay showed up to work on New Year’s Eve, ready to keep people in Nelson safe on what should have been a night of celebration. Instead, Lyn and Adam were targeted by the offender, simply because they were Police officers.
“This cowardly and senseless act has changed many people’s lives forever. A life taken in just moments has left behind family, friends and colleagues who are still feeling deep pain at Lyn’s loss. We know that every milestone in life without her feels heavy as she should still be with us,” says Commissioner Chambers.
“Lyn gave her community over 38 years’ service and was highly respected by her colleagues. I want to acknowledge the incredible strength and dignity shown by Lyn’s family. Having to listen to the evidence during the trial and see what happened to Lyn was harrowing. Particularly to Lyn’s husband Bryn, and children Aren and Rayna, we are with you. You will always be part of our Police family.
“There will not have been a single officer across the country who has not been impacted by what has occurred. The fact it was so random and completely unprovoked shows the danger which is faced by our officers every day.
“Senior Sergeant Adam Ramsay has faced a long road to recovery and will forever carry with him the dreadful memories of that day. He has shown immense courage and bravery since this incident, including when he had to relive these moments in court. The fact that he continues to show up to work despite what he has been through, is a testament to his character and commitment to our community.
“To the investigation team, thank you for your diligent and professional work on this investigation which has led to this outcome today for Lyn and Adam. And to all the staff, particularly in Nelson, this incident has been a bitter reminder of the dangers of policing. I am incredibly proud of how you serve our communities. You should rightly expect that you will go home at the end of your shift. Staff safety remains one of my top priorities, and our hope is this never happens again,” says Commissioner Chambers.
Area Commander for Nelson Bays Inspector Steve Collins says this tragic incident has also had a major impact on the local community and would like to take this opportunity to thank them for the overwhelming support they have shown Police since Lyn’s death.
“On the night of this incident, we saw officers and members of the public immediately jump in to try and help Lyn and Adam and prevent any further harm to anyone else. They were incredibly brave and heroic – acting without thought for their own safety and we cannot thank them enough for the way they responded.
“To the people from Nelson and across New Zealand who sent cards, laid flowers or just stopped us in the street to offer their condolences. You gave some comfort at a difficult time as our staff worked to come to terms with the shock of what had happened. Thank you for caring.
“Nelson is a beautiful and safe place to live, work and visit, this incident did not reflect our community and the outpouring of grief and support for Lyn’s family, as well as for Adam, shows this,” says Inspector Collins.
Commissioner Chambers says we will continue to honour Lyn’s legacy.
“Today and every day we will remember Lyn, not for the callous and evil acts of one person but by remembering all she did not only as a police officer but for her wider community. Her family will remember her as the most loving wife, mother, daughter and sister. Lyn, we will hold you in our hearts forever.”
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre