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A critical incident investigation has been launched after a terrifying chain of events left a woman fighting for her life and a man dead following a police shooting in Tuncurry this morning.
Police were called to a home on Heath Avenue just before 6.40am (Friday, 6 February 2026) after reports a man armed with a chainsaw and knife had forced his way inside.
While officers were on the way, they were told the man had stabbed a woman before fleeing the scene in a white 4WD.
At the home, police found a 28-year-old woman with serious injuries. She was treated by paramedics before being airlifted to John Hunter Hospital, where she remains in a serious but stable condition.
đź“Ť Multiple pursuits, carjackings and crashes followed
A short time later, police spotted the 4WD on Stewart Parade, Tuncurry, sparking a pursuit. The vehicle allegedly tore through a sportsground before crashing on the Forster Bridge.
Police were then told the man had carjacked another vehicle, which was later used to ram a police car, leaving an officer with minor injuries.
The pursuit continued to Idlewood Drive, Rainbow Flat, where the man allegedly drove onto a property, entered a home still armed, and attempted to steal yet another vehicle.
Moments later, the man exited the home and confronted police.
⚠️ Fatal confrontation
Officers deployed a Taser multiple times in an effort to stop the man, but he continued to flee and allegedly ran towards an officer while armed.
An officer discharged his firearm, fatally shooting the man.
Police immediately rendered first aid, but despite the efforts of NSW Ambulance paramedics, the man died at the scene.
The man, who has not yet been formally identified, is believed to be 41 years old.
🔍 Major investigation underway
A Critical Incident Team from State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad will investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
The investigation will also be reviewed by Professional Standards Command and overseen by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC).
This is a developing story. More updates to come as police investigations continue.
