Two police officers were killed and another was injured following a deadly shooting in Australia. The officers were ambushed when they attempted to serve a warrant at a Porepunkah property for historical sex abuse allegations.
Dozens of police and emergency services rushed to the alpine town following the shooting, and a local primary school was placed in lockdown. The Alpine Shire Council also closed all its facilities with immediate effect. The injured officer was treated by paramedics and flown by air ambulance to the hospital for treatment.
Air ambulance Victoria told the BBC: “Paramedics have treated one person for serious lower body injuries and transported them by air in a stable condition.”
Australian Federal Police Association said it extended “its deepest thoughts to the officers, families, and colleagues of Victoria Police affected by today’s incident”.
The Victorian premier, Jacinta Allan, praised the police for their bravery. In a statement, she said: “Victoria Police officers, and all our first responders, show extraordinary bravery and courage every single day.
“They are the best of us – and the thoughts of all Victorians are with them today.”
Mayor Sarah Nicholas said it had been an “unsettling” and “emotional” afternoon for locals. “Today has been a day of deep sorrow and shock for our community… We are grieving together,” she said.
Paying tribute to the slain officers, she also extended “thoughts, love and unwavering” support to their families.
“We hold our police in the highest regard. They serve with courage, compassion, and dedication, and their loss is felt profoundly across our region,” she said.
According to its principal, Jill Gillies, the situation is now under control, so students at Porepunkah Primary School will be allowed to go home.
She told broadcaster 3AW radio that family members can pick up children living in the Porepunkah area. However, those living in more distant areas will remain inside the school premises for the moment.
