ACT Policing is appealing for witnesses after a violent altercation involving a large group of teenagers in a central Canberra park, during which a firearm was allegedly produced and threats to shoot someone were made.
Park Disturbance Triggers Police Response
Police were called to Glebe Park in Canberra's Civic centre around 6:15 pm on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, following reports of a significant disturbance. According to authorities, a substantial group of young people was engaged in a fight within the park grounds.
The situation escalated when, during the confrontation, it was reported that a firearm was brandished. Witnesses also told police that explicit threats were made to shoot another individual involved in the incident.
Violence Spreads Through City Centre
Following the initial clash at Glebe Park, the group dispersed. However, the trouble was far from over. Throughout Tuesday evening, police received multiple further calls concerning fights involving youths at various locations in the city centre.
Officers responded to subsequent disturbances reported on City Walk, Tocumwal Lane, Cooyong Street, and Bunda Street. These incidents are believed to be connected to the earlier park brawl, indicating the conflict moved through the heart of the capital.
Appeal for Public Assistance
ACT Policing has launched an investigation into the series of fights and the serious allegation involving a firearm. Detectives are now urging anyone who witnessed any of the altercations to come forward with information.
Information can be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website. Police are particularly interested in speaking to anyone who may have seen the events in Glebe Park or the subsequent disturbances across the city centre that evening.
The incident has raised concerns about youth violence and weapon possession in public spaces in the nation's capital. Police continue their inquiries and are reviewing any available CCTV footage from the areas involved.
