A man has died following a firearms incident involving police in Launceston’s CBD this morning.
Assistant Commissioner Adrian Bodnar said that police responded to an emergency call from a member of the public about 10am this morning following a report of an armed man threatening members of the public in the Launceston CBD.
“Upon police arrival, officers attempted to negotiate with the man, who was armed with a knife and making threats,” he said.
“Initial investigations indicate the man ignored repeated warnings by police to disarm.
“OC spray was deployed, however the man continued to advance towards police. A number of shots were fired by two attending police officers – with two shots hitting the armed man in the chest.
“The man was immediately provided with first aid at the scene and was taken to the Launceston General Hospital in a critical condition. He was pronounced deceased a short time later.”
Assistant Commissioner Bodnar said that another police officer also at the scene received non-life threatening injuries after receiving a bullet injury during the incident, and was also receiving medical treatment at the LGH.
“No other people were injured in the incident and there is no ongoing threat to the wider community,” he said.
As is normal process in any serious incident involving police, a full Professional Standards investigation is underway.
Police are also in the process of notifying the man’s next of kin.
The investigation will now include the preparation of a report for the Coroner, who has been notified and is attending the scene. The Integrity Commission has also been notified as is the normal process.
“This is a traumatic incident and a tragic outcome that no one wanted. Our thoughts are with everyone involved,” Assistant Commissioner Bodnar said.
“It is an extremely difficult time for the officers involved and their families, and we have put support plans in place for them.
“Policing can be a challenging and dangerous profession, and we are ensuring the officers are being provided with wellbeing support.”
A crime scene has been established to allow investigations to be undertaken, and St Johns Street between William and Cimitiere Streets and Cimitiere Street between Charles and St Johns Streets remain closed until further notice.
“Police would like to thank the local community for their assistance as we carry out our investigations. We appreciate their patience and understanding,” Assistant Commissioner Bodnar said.
Anyone with information should contact Police on 131 444 or report anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestopperstas.com.au
