Queensland police have shot a man dead after a siege in Mareeba. Source: Highway Patrol Images, Wikimedia Commons
An investigation has begun after a man was shot and killed by police after a siege in Mareeba, far North Queensland.
Police were called to Love Street, Mareeba, after reports of a disturbance at around 11:30am on Saturday.
Acting Superintendent Sonia Smith told the media on Sunday afternoon that police were responding to reports of domestic violence.
“It’s alleged that a 27-year-old man was armed with a knife, refusing to allow a female to leave that property,” Smith said.
“Negotiators were called and attended, and spoke to that man for several hours. Specialist officers were also called to the address.”
The man allegedly threatened several officers with a knife at about 3:30pm before he was shot and killed by police.
Acting Superintendent Smith did not make any comments about the relationship between the man and the woman but did say that the woman was not injured.
Queensland Police said they tried to save the man immediately with CPR and first aid but were unsuccessful. A crime scene was then established, and forensic investigations continue.
“Circumstances surrounding this incident are being investigated by independent officers from the Ethical Standards Command on behalf of the state coroner,” Smith said.
“The matter is also being overviewed by officers from the Crime and Corruption Commission.”
Local members of the community gathered near the house on Saturday evening to express their anger. Through a video on social media, police were seen speaking to a crowd at the scene on Saturday night.
Inspector Kevin Goan spoke to the crowd in the social media video, telling them police would meet with the local community on Sunday morning to answer any questions.
Acting Superintendent Smith said that police wanted to establish “open communication” with the Mareeba community, and that police have been meeting “formally and informally” with people.
“Police are working closely with supporting the family involved,” Smith said.
“We’re also supporting the Mareeba community and we’re utilising our police resources such as our police liaison officers based in both Mareeba and Cairns to provide that support.”
