The 28-year-old Australian man accused of yesterday’s terror attack that left at least 49 people dead in Christchurch has appeared in court this morning, charged with murder.
Brenton Tarrant, formerly of Grafton, was led into the court barefoot in a prison robe and handcuffs, and was not required to speak during his brief three-minute appearance.
He has so far been charged with one count of murder, although judge Paul Kellar said it’s “reasonable to assume” that more charges will follow, after yesterday’s deadly shooting.
The victim cannot be named by order of the court. Tarrant did not apply for bail, and per ABC News reports, did not apply to have his name suppressed.
The court was closed to the public over safety concerns, however a number of people gathered outside ahead of his appearance, including a man who told reporters his father was one of the victims.
Two other people have been arrested in connection with the terror attack, and they remain in custody as police conduct an ongoing investigation as to their possible involvement.
A fourth person was arrested yesterday in the wake of the shootings, but has been released without charge. Police say that this person was a member of the public armed with a gun with the intention of assisting officers.
New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has promised to change the country’s gun laws, and in a speech from Wellington this morning, told the public:
“I want to finish by saying that while the nation grapples with a form of grief and anger that we have not experienced before, we are seeking answers. As is the entire nation, we are all unified in grieving together … Rhetoric of racism, division and extremism has no place not only in New Zealand but I would say in a society as a whole.”
Tarrant has been remanded in custody until April 5, when he will appear again before the High Court in Christchurch.
