A Tasmanian police officer has died after a shooting incident in the state’s north-west.
The male police officer was attending a rural property on Allison Road near North Motton when he was shot just after 11am.
A member of the public allegedly shot the officer as he approached the house.
Another officer subsequently discharged their firearm towards the alleged offender, who then surrendered to police.
In a statement, Tasmania Police said there was “no ongoing threat to the wider community”, but the public should “avoid the area”.
The alleged offender was not seriously injured. He is in custody and has not yet been formally charged.
Police have established a crime scene and Allison Road has been manned by officers at the intersections of Walkers Road, Preston Road and Saltmarshs Road.
North Motton is a small rural town 26km west of Devonport.
“This is a traumatic incident and wellbeing support is being provided to those involved and affected,” Tasmania Police said in a statement.
“As is normal process in any serious incident involving police, a full Professional Standards investigation is underway.”
The coroner has been notified of the shooting and has attended the scene.
Tasmania Police urges anyone with information to come forward and assist in the investigation.
Commissioner Donna Adams said he was a respected and committed officer who has served the community with dedication for 25 years.
“His loss will be deeply felt across our policing family and the wider community,” she said.
“My heart goes out to his wife and family today. We will be supporting them in every way we can during this incredibly difficult time.”
Commissioner Adams said wellbeing support will be provided to all officers and individuals affected by the incident.
“We are doing everything we can to support our officers colleagues and family, who are understandably devastated,” she said.
“While no other police were physically injured, the emotional impact is profound.”
Tasmania Premier Jeremy Rockliff passed on his condolences following the tragic incident.
“To everyone who had the honour of knowing this officer, especially his family and his colleagues …. the love of an entire state is with you today,” he said on Facebook.
“And you will have every possible support made available, as we come to grips with this heartbreaking tragedy.”
The state’s police, fire and emergency management minister, Felix Ellis, said it was “a dark day for our police force and wider community”.
“This sends shock waves right through our community,” he said.
“Our hearts go out to the officer’s loved ones, our north-west community, and our Tasmania Police family.”
