A Tasmanian police officer has died following a shooting at a rural property near Ulverstone today.
The officer was carrying out “routine duties” at a property on Allison Road at North Motton when the fatal shooting occurred around 11am.
“A member of the public allegedly shot a police officer as the officer approached the house,” Tasmania Police said in a statement.
A second officer at the scene then discharged their firearm towards the alleged shooter, who “surrendered to police” following the exchange.
“The police officer was critically injured and died at the scene,” police confirmed.
“The alleged offender was not seriously injured.”
Police said there is “no ongoing threat to the public” and have asked people to avoid the area.
A crime scene has been established across several streets, with Allison Road currently blocked at the intersections of Walkers Road, Preston Road and Saltmarshs Road.
“This is a traumatic incident and wellbeing support is being provided to those involved and affected,” police said.
“As is normal process in any serious incident involving police, a full professional standards investigation is underway.”
Tasmania’s premier has rallied behind the state’s police force, expressing his “heartfelt condolences” following the incident.
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