Emma Pritchard

A critical incident investigation remains ongoing following a shooting which took place in the Clarence Valley last week.

Around 6:30am on Wednesday, December 11, officers attached to the Coffs/Clarence Police District attended a scene in the vicinity of JJ Lawrence Field and McKittrick Park, popular recreational areas in Ryan Street, South Grafton, after responding to reports of a concern for welfare. 

Upon arrival, police located and attempted to engage with a man for a period of time before he allegedly approached them and threatened two officers with a knife, resulting in the police discharging their firearms.

Officers immediately rendered first aid until NSW Ambulance paramedics arrived.

The man was airlifted to the Gold Coast University Hospital in a serious but stable condition.

The attending officers did not sustain any injuries during the incident.

A crime scene was established and remained in place for several hours throughout the day while a forensic team conducted further investigations including taking aerial footage using a drone to attain additional evidence.

While addressing the media following the incident, Assistant Commissioner David Waddell Northern Region Commander, revealed the man was local and aged in his early 30s.

A critical incident team from Richmond Police District is investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The investigation is also subject to an independent review.

No further updates were available to the Clarence Valley Independent at the time of publication.