AUSTRALIA, DEC 13: A gunfight that took place at a residence in Wieambilla, Australia caused the death of six people including two police officers following investigations of a missing person.
They were identified as 26-year-old Matthew Arnold and 29-year-old Rachel McCrow.
According to Queensland Police Commissioner, Katarina Carroll, said the incident is the largest loss of police life they have suffered in one incident in many years.
“Despite police efforts, the matter was unable to be resolved peacefully and all three offenders were fatally shot by specialist officers.
An ethical standards investigation is underway into the police response with oversight from the Triple C (Crime and Corruption Commission).
“The scene is quite unimaginable, it’s distressing, and in my view, those officers did not stand a chance, and I don’t know how two got out alive,” she said in an interview after the incident took place.
Police were dispatched to the residence, located about 300 kilometres northwest of Brisbane for 46-year-old Nathaniel Train who was reported missing in New South Wales.
After the incident, the three attackers were identified as Nathaniel Train, his brother Gareth Train and an unidentified woman.
At the same time, the country’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese offered his condolences via Twitter, and described the incident as a terrible tragedy.
“Terrible scenes in Wieambilla and a heartbreaking day for the families and friends of the Queensland Police officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. My condolences to all who are grieving tonight – Australia mourns with you,” he tweeted. – TVS