A dramatic incident unfolded in Brisbane’s south , leaving a police officer and a man with serious injuries.
The shocking event occurred when a police-issued firearm was discharged during a struggle with a 26-year-old man at a property in Annerley.
What Happened?
The incident began when officers were called to a Tamar St address in Annerley about 9:13 am, following reports of a disturbance.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Rhys Wildman explained that the “highly agitated” 26-year-old man was armed with a piece of timber in the backyard of the property.
The man was not related to the property and the owners did not know him.
A Struggle Ensues
A senior constable and a first-year constable approached the man, attempting to de-escalate the situation.
However, a struggle began when the 26-year-old man lunged for the senior constable’s firearm. During the struggle, the firearm discharged, and the senior constable sustained a gunshot wound to his thigh.
The Aftermath
The first-year constable was forced to discharge his firearm, hitting the 26-year-old man in the stomach twice.
The officer then provided tactical first aid to his colleague using a tourniquet. Despite being shot twice, the man remained “very agitated” and had to be tasered by other officers when they arrived at the property.
The Investigation
Commissioner Wildman stated that there is an “active investigation” underway into the lead-up to the incident.
The Ethical Standards Command will investigate the matter, with oversight by the Crime and Corruption Commission. Separate investigations will also take place into alleged criminal activity.
The Current Situation
The 26-year-old man is in a serious condition in hospital, undergoing surgery. The 40-year-old senior constable is in a stable condition and receiving treatment.
The first-year constable was treated for a bite injury and has been released. A crime scene remains in place at Tamar St, and the incident serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by police officers in their line of duty.