Three people have been killed by police at a property in rural Australia after a six-hour standoff that began with the ‘execution-style’ shooting of two officers and a neighbour.
Police said the violence erupted around 4.45pm local time on Monday when four officers arrived to investigate reports of a missing person at a remote property west of Brisbane, Queensland.
At least two men, believed to be in camouflage gear, opened fire on police without warning, Sky News Australia reported.
Officers returned fire, but two were seriously injured and died at the scene, police said.
The two officers, a 29-year-old man and a 26-year-old woman, were shot in an execution-style shootout at close range, according to Sky News Australia.
A third officer is said to be injured at nearby Chinchilla Hospital.
Police said a bystander, possibly a neighbour, was also killed in the shooting at the property in the town of Wieambilla.
Queensland Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll told a briefing that a third officer was grazed by a bullet and a fourth escaped during the initial confrontation.
A siege situation then developed on the property, authorities said, with specialist police and air support called in.
Shortly after 10:30 p.m., two men and a woman were killed in a second major clash with police, ending the violence.
The area is sparsely populated and has several large properties and gas fields.
“Executed by ruthless killers”
The Commissioner fought back tears at an earlier press conference after confirming the first three deaths.
“Tragically, this is the greatest loss of life we have suffered in a single incident in recent times,” Ms Carroll said.
Police union president Ian Leavers said the dead officers had “no chance” of shooting them.
“Knowing that he and she are no longer with us in what was a ruthless, calculated and targeted execution of our colleagues and loved ones reminds us of the very real risks we face every day in the line of duty.” , Mr. Leavers said in a video.
“They were executed by remorseless and ruthless killers.”
Anthony Albanese, the Prime Minister, offered his condolences to the families of the bereaved and said it was ‘a heartbreaking day for the families and friends of Queensland police officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty “.
