A heartbreaking incident in Tasmania has left a community in mourning as a 57-year-old police officer was fatally shot while serving a warrant to repossess a home in North Motton, near Ulverstone. According to Tasmania Police, the officer was fired upon by a "member of the public" shortly after arriving at the scene on Monday morning. Another officer, who was accompanying him, returned fire and injured the suspect, who later surrendered and received medical treatment.
Police Commissioner Donna Adams expressed her sorrow over the incident, noting the rarity of such deadly encounters in Australia, where strict gun laws generally prevent gun violence. “The safety of our officers is our number one priority, and to see an officer tragically killed in those circumstances is truly shocking,” Adams remarked during a news briefing. She emphasized the expectation for every officer to return home safely after their shifts.
As investigations proceed, police have established a crime scene in North Motton and have notified the coroner. The police have withheld the officer’s name out of respect for his family, who are still being informed of the tragedy. Adams described the fallen officer as a "genuine, dependable police officer" who dedicated 25 years to community service.
Colleagues are being offered well-being support following the event, and Premier Jeremy Rockliff referred to the incident as a "heartbreaking tragedy" in a statement expressing solidarity with the officer's family and colleagues. The police have reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring safety and protecting the community, as they navigate the investigation into this shocking incident.
