Deadly Ambush on Australian Police Leaves 6 Dead, Including 2 Police Officers

Six individuals have been shot and killed in a deadly shootout after police officers were ambushed by three individuals in the Western Downs region of Queensland, Australia, on Dec. 12.

At around 4:30 p.m., four police officers were initially called to investigate a missing person report at a property on Wains Rd in Wieambilla.

Two young constables, Matthew Arnold, 26, and Rachel McCrow, 29, were hit with a “hail of gunshots” after jumping a fence on the property, according to Queensland Police Union President Ian Leavers.

The pair fell, forcing their colleagues to take cover behind them.

“The ruthless, murderous trio have then gone and executed the two police, our fallen officers, who were on the ground. They have executed them in cold blood,” Leavers told ABC Radio National on Dec. 13.

A neighbour was also gunned down and shot in the back after going out to investigate.

“That is just an absolute tragedy as well,” said Leavers.

A young female officer also tried to take cover in the long grass around the property, compelling the three individuals to try allegedly light a fire to coax her out.

“She actually believed that she was either going to be shot or she was going to be burnt alive,” Leavers added.

Siege Ensues, Police Kill 3 Suspects

A siege situation ensured and an emergency declaration was made encompassing the area of Chinchilla Tara Rd, Wieambilla Rd, Bennetts School Rd, and Mary Street.

Specialist police officers and PolAir, the aerial support arm of the police force, responded to the property.

The three attackers were subsequently killed in the firefight, according to AAP. Two of the men were brothers and one woman was a partner.

Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll said the incident was devastating for the victims’ families and the entire police organisation.

“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the officers’ families, friends, and colleagues and our thoughts are with them during this extremely difficult time,” she said in a statement.

“I would like to pay tribute to all police and first responders who assisted at the scene and are continuing to respond this evening.

“Tragically, this is the largest loss of life the [Queensland Police Force] has suffered in one single incident in recent times.”

Both Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton have responded to the event.

“Terrible scenes in Wieambilla and a heartbreaking day for the families and friends of the Queensland Police officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. My condolences to all who are grieving tonight—Australia mourns with you,” he wrote on Twitter.

Terrible scenes in Wieambilla and a heartbreaking day for the families and friends of the Queensland Police officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. My condolences to all who are grieving tonight – Australia mourns with you.

— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) December 12, 2022

While opposition leader Peter Dutton, a former police officer in Queensland, said the attack was  “deeply distressing.”

Deeply distressing news coming out of western Queensland tonight with those police officers who have been murdered. Police officers face danger every day to keep us from it.

— Peter Dutton (@PeterDutton_MP) December 12, 2022

AAP contributed to this article.