Wellington, June 29 (DPA) A paraplegic gunman who terrorized a suburban street by firing about random 100 shots from his wheelchair was shot dead by New Zealand police after a three-hour stand-off, police confirmed Monday.
They said the drama in the Christchurch suburb of Burnside began Sunday night after Shayne Richard Sime, 42, called his family, saying he was suicidal. News reports said that Sime had a head injury and was drunk.
A police officer and a 39-year-old neighbour were shot during the stand-off in the cul-de-sac where the gunman lived. Police said the officer suffered head injuries and was lucky to have been wearing a percussion helmet.
The neighbour was peppered with pellets from his shoulders to his groin. Both victims were taken to hospital and later discharged, but police said the officer would return Monday for minor surgery.
Police-inspector Dave Lawry told reporters early Monday morning that Sime had been shot dead after refusing demands to put down the shotgun and rifle he used.
Reports said that about 40 residents, some in pyjamas, were evacuated from their homes during the stand-off.
