A man was fatally shot by police officers after he brandished a bow and arrow at them. The incident occurred during a welfare check at a residence on Quia Road in Gunnedah, located approximately 450km northwest of Sydney. Upon police arrival, the man initially engaged in conversation with the officers before reemerging from the home armed with the bow and arrow, directing it towards the officers.
Following the confrontation, New South Wales Police reported that the officers sought cover in their vehicle as the man continued to pose a threat. In response, a police officer discharged a firearm, resulting in the man being mortally wounded despite attempts to save him.
A spokesperson for the NSW police stated that a critical incident inquiry has been initiated into the shooting that transpired in the western region of the state. The police were responding to concerns for welfare when the fatal confrontation unfolded. The investigation will be spearheaded by a critical incident team from the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad to ascertain the circumstances that led to the fatal outcome.
Authorities have urged anyone with relevant information about the incident to come forward by contacting Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or visiting https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information provided will be handled confidentially, and the public is advised against submitting details via NSW Police social media platforms.