A shocking incident has unfolded in Brisbane’s south, leaving a police officer and another man fighting for their lives after a dramatic shootout.
The incident occurred on Friday morning, when two police officers responded to a reported disturbance at a residence on Tamar St in Annerley.
What Happened?
The officers, a 40-year-old senior constable and a first-year constable, arrived at the scene to find a 26-year-old man trespassing in the backyard, armed with a piece of timber and acting erratically.
Despite attempts to calm the situation, a physical altercation ensued, and the man reached for the senior constable’s firearm, shooting him in the inner thigh.
A Heroic Act
The first-year constable sprang into action, shooting the man twice in the stomach before applying a tourniquet to the senior officer’s leg. This selfless act has been praised by Chief Superintendent Rhys Wildman, who believes it may have saved the senior constable’s life.
The Aftermath
Both the senior constable and the 26-year-old man were rushed to Princess Alexandra Hospital in critical conditions.
The senior constable is now stable, but the other man remains in a serious condition, undergoing surgery. The incident has left everyone involved, including witnesses, traumatized.
Investigation Underway
The Ethical Standards Command, with oversight by the Crime and Corruption Commission, will investigate the incident.
The police-issued firearm, a Glock model 22, has multiple safety features, and the investigation will examine how the firearm was discharged.
A Rare and Intense Situation
Chief Superintendent Wildman described the incident as “extremely unusual,” noting that it’s rare for a taser to be used after a firearm has been discharged.
The situation highlights the risks and challenges faced by police officers, who often put their lives on the line to protect others.