Man shot dead by police after threatening public in Tasmanian CBD

Police have shot dead a knife-wielding man following an incident in the centre of the Tasmanian city of Launceston. Emergency services responded to a call from the public about 10am Tuesday following a report of an armed man threatening members of the public. “Upon police arrival, officers attempted to negotiate with the man, who was armed with a knife and making threats,” said Tasmania Police assistant commissioner Adrian Bodnar. “Initial investigations indicate the man ignored repeated warnings by police to disarm. “OC spray was deployed, however the man continued to advance towards police. “A number of shots were fired by two attending police officers – with two shots hitting the armed man in the chest.” First aid was given to the man at the scene, who was taken to Launceston General Hospital in a critical condition. He was pronounced dead a short time later. An officer at the scene also received non-life threatening to his cheek during the incident, and is receiving medical treatment at the Launceston General Hospital. “No other people were injured in the incident and there is no ongoing threat to the wider community,” Assistant Commissioner Bodnar said. “This is a traumatic incident and a tragic outcome that no one wanted. Our thoughts are with everyone involved,” he said. “It is an extremely difficult time for the officers involved and their families, and we have put support plans in place for them. “Policing can be a challenging and dangerous profession, and we are ensuring the officers are being provided with wellbeing support.” Police have launched an investigation into the incident. Assistant Commander Bodnar said there were six officers involved. I don’t have the definitive time periods that all those members arrived, but ultimately, as I say, one of our members has received a bullet injury,” he said. St Johns Street between William and Cimitiere Streets and Cimitiere Street between Charles and St Johns Streets will remain closed until further notice while the crime scene is established. Anyone with information should contact Police on 131 444 or report anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestopperstas.com.au