NSW Police shoot man dead in Southern Tablelands

Police shot and killed a 45-year-old man in the Southern Tablelands of New South Wales on Sunday, October 4, following a vehicle accident. The incident occurred near the town of Rugby after a Chrysler station wagon crashed into a tree and landed in a ditch.

Assistant Commissioner Stephen Hegarty stated that while officers and paramedics were attempting to check on the welfare of the unresponsive driver, the man allegedly took possession of a loaded rifle and pointed it directly at an officer. Police responded by opening fire, striking the man with multiple rounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators confirmed the deceased was known to police and had a history of firearms offences. The shooting has been declared a critical incident and is subject to an investigation by the NSW Police Homicide Squad, with oversight from the Professional Standards Command and the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission.