In a violent incident on the New South Wales mid-north coast, a man armed with a chainsaw and a knife was fatally shot by police after reportedly breaking into a residence in Tuncurry and stabbing a woman. The confrontation unfolded early on Friday morning, culminating in a dramatic police pursuit and a critical incident investigation.
Early Morning Home Invasion and Stabbing
NSW police from the Manning Great Lakes district responded to reports of a home invasion at a property in Tuncurry just before 6:40 am. Upon arrival, officers discovered a 28-year-old woman with serious stab wounds. Paramedics provided immediate treatment before she was airlifted to John Hunter Hospital, where she remains in a serious but stable condition.
Chaotic Pursuit and Vehicle Theft
During their response, police were informed that the suspect had fled the scene in a white 4WD vehicle. The pursuit led officers through a local sports ground before the vehicle reportedly crashed on the Forster Bridge shortly thereafter. At the bridge, authorities found the wrecked 4WD and learned that the man had carjacked another vehicle.
According to police statements, the man then rammed a police vehicle with the stolen car, resulting in minor injuries to one officer. The pursuit continued as the suspect drove onto another property, entered a home while still armed with a knife, and attempted to steal yet another vehicle.
Confrontation and Fatal Shooting
Moments later, the armed man emerged from the house and confronted the officers on the scene. Police deployed a Taser in an effort to detain him, but he managed to flee to a neighbouring property. Officers then used the Taser multiple times in an attempt to subdue him.
Despite these efforts, the man ran towards an officer, prompting the officer to discharge their firearm. The man was treated at the scene but succumbed to his injuries. He has not been formally identified, but police believe he was 41 years old.
Critical Incident Investigation Launched
In response to the fatal shooting, NSW police have initiated a critical incident investigation, a standard procedure when an officer-involved incident results in death or serious injury. A team from the state crime command's homicide squad will lead the inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the event.
The investigation will be reviewed by the police's professional standards command and overseen by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission, ensuring independent scrutiny of the actions taken by officers during the confrontation.
This incident highlights the dangers faced by law enforcement in volatile situations and raises questions about public safety in residential areas. The community of Tuncurry is left grappling with the aftermath of this violent episode, as authorities work to piece together the full sequence of events.
