57 year-old John William Finnerty is urgently sought by Police after allegedly presenting a firearm at a person this afternoon in Te Aroha.
At approximately 2.10pm this afternoon, the Waikato AOS was deployed to a residential address in Te Aroha after reports of one or more shots being fired following an altercation between neighbours, including Finnerty.
When AOS arrived on the scene Finnerty was thought to be inside one of the residences. He failed to respond when hailed so gas was deployed but he was not located on the premises.
Police have seized the firearm alleged to have been used by Finnerty and are continuing to search for him in the town.
No injuries were sustained by any parties involved in the altercation.
Finnerty is described as European, approximately 6 foot tall, of large build and with a distinctive gait.
He may have access to other weapons and should not be approached.
If anybody has any information that could help Police locate Finnerty and/or piece together the events leading up to the incident, please contact Senior Constable Craig Gordon at Te Aroha Police on 07 858 6200 or anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Issued by Natalie Swart, Relieving Communications Manager, Waikato Police.