Police in New South Wales have shot and killed a man during a prolonged siege that began as a response to a mental health crisis on the Central Coast. The 49-year-old resident of Springfield died at the scene on Wednesday night after officers discharged their firearms.
Siege unfolds over several hours
The incident began around 3:30pm on Wednesday when police were notified about a resident experiencing a mental health episode on Wells Street in Springfield. Officers attended the home, accompanied by a mental health clinician, in an initial attempt to manage the situation.
According to NSW Police Assistant Commissioner David Waddell, the man armed himself with a screwdriver and other sharp objects as police approached. Officers first attempted to subdue him using non-lethal options. Both a Taser and pepper spray were deployed but proved unsuccessful.
The man then retreated into his home and barricaded himself inside, prompting police to call in the tactical operations unit and negotiators. The standoff continued for several hours as specialists attempted to bring the situation to a peaceful resolution.
Critical incident escalates
The confrontation took a dangerous turn at approximately 9:30pm. Assistant Commissioner Waddell stated that the resident ignited an aerosol can and attempted to set an officer alight. Police then moved forward into the premises and again used non-lethal force, which failed to subdue the man.
The situation reached a critical point when the resident grabbed one of the officers and attempted to stab him multiple times with a weapon. The officer's protective gear prevented serious injury, with Waddell confirming he sustained only "very minimal injuries, a slight laceration".
In response to this immediate threat, a number of officers discharged their service firearms, fatally wounding the man. Paramedics, who were already on standby at the location, were unable to save him. He died at the scene from gunshot wounds.
Investigations launched into fatal shooting
Assistant Commissioner Waddell addressed the media on Thursday, confirming the man was known to police but had a "very limited history" with authorities. A critical incident investigation has been initiated, which is standard procedure following a police shooting.
The investigation will be led by the State Crime Command's Homicide Squad under the critical incident framework. It will be subject to review by the Professional Standards Command and oversight from the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC).
Waddell indicated the investigative process would be thorough and lengthy, noting it would likely take "months and months" as the actions of all involved officers are scrutinised against relevant legislation and police policy.
The tragic outcome has highlighted the complex challenges police face when responding to mental health crises in the community, where volatile situations can escalate rapidly despite attempts at de-escalation.
