A man wielding a machete and a knife has been shot dead by police in a busy coastal area of northeast Queensland.
The incident occurred on McKinley Street near The Strand in Townsville’s North Ward around 9:50 am on Saturday, after reports of a man carrying weapons surfaced.
According to police, the man advanced towards officers while armed, prompting them to open fire.
Paramedics Tried to Save the Man, but Sadly, He Couldn’t Be Revived
Paramedics treated the man at the scene for critical injuries to his chest, abdomen, and legs, but unfortunately, he couldn’t be saved.
Luckily, no police officers or members of the public were physically hurt in the incident.
Investigation Underway, with Ethical Standards Command and Crime and Corruption Commission Oversight
The matter is currently under investigation by the Ethical Standards Command, with oversight by the Crime and Corruption Commission.
Superintendent Chris Lawson confirmed that multiple officers were involved in the shooting, but declined to specify the exact number, citing the ongoing investigation.
Police Acknowledge Rise in Knife-Related Crime, Urge Witnesses to Come Forward
Lawson expressed concern over the increasing prevalence of knife crime in the community and urged anyone who had interacted with the man before the incident to come forward.
The shooting serves as a stark reminder of the dangers police face daily and the occasional need to use lethal force, Lawson said.