AOS arrests man after death threats

Armedpolice were called to Murphy St yesterday after a mentally ill man told a health worker he wanted to kill people.

About 10 armed offenders squad members and police dogs surrounded the man's house before the 40-year-old was arrested about 3.20pm.

The man was taken to Nelson Hospital for treatment and police will consider laying charges next week, said Acting Senior Sergeant Blair Hall of Nelson police.

"The AOS were called in as a precaution. We don't know if he was serious but take any threats seriously. He hasn't been charged at this stage and initially we want him to get treatment."

Nobody was injured or directly threatened by the man.

Mr Hall said police first became aware of the situation about 12.30pm after the man told a health worker he wanted to kill people.

"He told the health professional that he was going to shoot people, but he didn't get aggressive towards that person."

Mr Hall did not know if there were any guns in the house. Residents were not allowed to enter the street but could leave.

About six police vehicles were parked at the Jenner Rd end of Murphy St and another three were stationed at the Emano St end where 15 residents gathered.

One man, who did not want to be named, said he heard loud music coming from the house.

A neighbouring family was told to leave their home at 2.20pm, which was when the road was closed. They said they had never met the man and he always had his curtains closed.

Victory Primary School principal Mark Brown said police called to say something was going on at Murphy St. The call prompted the school to make plans to keep children at school if they couldn't get home, he said.

- © Fairfax NZ News