Two separate incidents involving police in New South Wales have resulted in the deaths of two men, prompting critical incident investigations. One man died following a medical episode during an arrest in Homebush, Sydney, while another was fatally shot by police following a six-hour standoff on the Central Coast. Both investigations will undergo independent review and oversight.
Homebush Incident: Medical Episode During Arrest
A 52-year-old man died in hospital following a medical episode that occurred during his arrest in Homebush, Sydney's west, on a recent morning.
Incident Details
Police responded to reports of a domestic violence incident at a unit around 8:30 AM. During the man's arrest inside the unit, officers deployed pepper spray. Shortly after the deployment, the man experienced a medical episode.
Medical Response and Hospitalization
NSW Ambulance paramedics were called to the scene. They provided treatment to the man before transporting him to Westmead Hospital, where he was admitted in critical condition. He subsequently died at the hospital.
Investigation
A crime scene was established at the unit. A critical incident team from Campbelltown City Police Area Command is conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death. This investigation will undergo an independent review by the Professional Standards Command and will be subject to oversight by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission.
Springfield Incident: Fatal Shooting After Standoff
A 49-year-old man died following an incident involving police on Wells Street in Springfield, on the New South Wales Central Coast, which commenced on Wednesday afternoon and concluded early Thursday morning.
Initial Response and Standoff
Police officers responded to a welfare check request at a residence on Wells Street shortly before 3:30 PM on Wednesday. Upon their arrival, the man reportedly armed himself with a screwdriver and other sharp objects. This led to specialist police units establishing a perimeter around the residence, and a standoff ensued for approximately six hours.
Escalation and Police Action
During the incident, the man allegedly attempted to ignite an aerosol can in the direction of an officer. Following this, officers from the Tactical Operations Regional Support unit entered the residence. Police reports indicate that the man then armed himself with a sharp object and lunged at an officer multiple times. In response, officers discharged their firearms, fatally wounding the man at the scene.
Aftermath and Investigation
One police officer sustained a minor injury during the event. A critical incident investigation has been initiated by a team from State Crime Command's Homicide Squad to examine the circumstances of the incident. This investigation will undergo review by the Professional Standards Command and will be overseen by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission.