Police have shot a man after reports he was brandishing a knife close to a Sydney supermarket.
Emergency services were called to Alexander Ave in North Willoughby shortly before 11.30am on Thursday following reports of a man threatening residents.
The two responding officers were allegedly confronted by a man, who was armed with two knives, before a constable discharged their firearm.
The man died at the scene.
The incident took place in the middle of the day in the quiet suburb of North Willoughby. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Swift
People were seen visibly distressed at the scene. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Swift
A critical incident investigation has been launched. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Swift
There were no other injuries reported.
A critical incident team from the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad will investigate all circumstances surrounding the man’s death, including the discharge of a police firearm.
The investigation will be subject to an independent review and a report will be prepared for the Coroner.
Emergency services were called to Alexander Ave in North Willoughby shortly before 11.30am on Thursday following reports of a man threatening residents. Picture: David Swift
The two responding officers were allegedly confronted by a man, who was armed with two knives, before a constable discharged their firearm. Picture: David Swift
2GB radio host Ben Fordham was reportedly in the area when the shooting occurred and called into the radio station to warn locals to be aware.
“First and foremost for anyone around the area, if you can be aware that there is a very serious police operation that is underway around Willoughby at the moment,” he told host Deborah Knight.
“You’d be wise to avoid it if you possibly can.
“Gunshots have been heard in the area of Willoughby.”
The armed man died at the scene. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Swift
Police remain on the scene. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Swift
An employee at the nearby Harris Farm supermarket said staff did not hear the shooting, but were informed of incident by customers.
The incident follows a difficult week for NSW Police after 95-year-old Cooma dementia patient Clare Nowland died overnight.
Mrs Nowland was allegedly tasered by police responding to claims she was holding a steak knife inside her aged care facility.
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