Pipe Bombs Found Near Body on Auckland Motorway Not Criminal, Police Say

By Melanie Earley

A shocking discovery has been made near the Southern Motorway in Highbrook, Auckland, where police confirmed that pipe bombs were found alongside the body of a man. Despite the alarming nature of the incident, authorities have confirmed that the matter is not being treated as a criminal one.

On Tuesday around 11:30 am, police were alerted to the discovery of a body beside the motorway, which led to the closure of the road for many hours. The area was cordoned off by police, and an investigation was launched immediately.

On Wednesday, Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Hayward confirmed that the devices found near the body were pipe bombs, which could have been lethal to anyone nearby. However, it was also revealed that the man’s death has been referred to the Coroner, and that the cause of death was determined to be a self-inflicted injury.

Not a Criminal Matter
Despite the presence of potentially deadly explosives, police have stated that the incident is not being treated as a criminal matter. Mr. Hayward said that police are currently unable to release further details about the man, as formal identification procedures are still ongoing.

The next of kin have been contacted and are being supported through the process. The police have urged the public to be respectful of the grieving family and to avoid speculation about the incident, given the sensitive nature of the situation.

Coroner to Determine Circumstances
The Coroner will eventually release findings regarding the circumstances leading to the man’s death. However, police will not be releasing detailed findings from the post-mortem, as they are not required to do so under the current investigation.

Public Safety and Support Services
The discovery of the pipe bombs raised serious concerns about public safety. Authorities have reminded the public that such incidents can be extremely dangerous, and that any unattended items should be reported immediately to police.

In the event of a mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts, several support services are available, including Need to Talk, Lifeline, and Samaritans, among others. These services provide free and confidential support for individuals in distress.

Public Reaction and Community Impact
The incident has sparked a wide range of public reactions, with many people expressing concern over the location of the discovery and the presence of such dangerous items in a highly trafficked area. Others have called for increased mental health support and awareness in the community.

As the investigation continues, the focus remains on understanding the circumstances surrounding the man’s death and ensuring that the community is informed and supported. The Coroner’s report will be a crucial step in this process.

Conclusion
While the discovery of the pipe bombs raised immediate concerns about public safety, the police have made it clear that the incident is not being treated as a criminal matter. The focus now is on supporting the family of the deceased and providing clarity through the Coroner’s investigation. The community is being urged to remain vigilant and to seek help if needed.