Victoria is reeling tonight after confirmation that two police officers have been killed and a third seriously wounded following a shooting at a rural property in Porepunkah, around 300 kilometres north-east of Melbourne.
The deadly confrontation unfolded earlier today when officers attended the property on police business. What began as a routine visit tragically escalated into violence, leaving the force — and the wider community — shaken.
What We Know So Far
- Two officers are confirmed dead at the scene.
- A third officer has been seriously injured and is receiving urgent medical treatment.
- Witnesses report sustained bursts of gunfire, with locals ordered to remain indoors.
- Heavy gunfire has prevented police from safely entering the property, forcing frontline officers to pull back and establish a secure perimeter.
- Specialist Victoria Police Special Operations officers are en route to take control of the situation and attempt to resolve it.
Ongoing Operation
The situation remains volatile and dangerous. Police sources say officers have been unable to reach their fallen colleagues due to the ongoing threat from inside the property. Tactical units, crisis negotiators, and paramedics are standing by as the response escalates.
The sound of automatic or semi-automatic gunfire has been reported by locals, with fears that the suspect or suspects inside the property are heavily armed. Roads in and out of Porepunkah have been sealed off, with a large exclusion zone in place.
Community on Edge
The nearby Porepunkah Primary School and other local facilities remain in lockdown as a precaution, with teachers and students told to shelter in place until authorities can ensure the area is secure.
Residents in the small community, known for its quiet lifestyle and tourist links to Bright and Mount Buffalo, have described the unfolding events as “like something out of a nightmare.”
Official Response
Victoria Police are yet to deliver a full public statement but have confirmed a “serious incident” is underway. Senior leadership is closely monitoring the situation, and it is expected that both the Chief Commissioner of Police and the Premier of Victoria will address the state once more information is verified.
Flags at police stations across the state are expected to fly at half-mast in the coming days in tribute to the fallen officers.
A Dark Day for Victoria Police
This marks one of the most tragic incidents for Victoria Police in recent memory. Officers across the state are said to be in shock as news spreads of the deaths of their colleagues in the line of duty.
The risks that police face every day — even in rural communities where danger often feels far away — have been brought into sharp focus tonight.
Public Urged to Stay Clear
Authorities are urging the public to:
- Avoid the Porepunkah area entirely.
- Refrain from approaching police cordons.
- Follow updates only from official Victoria Police and emergency service channels.
This is a rapidly developing and highly dangerous situation. The community — and the state — now waits anxiously as Special Operations officers prepare to move in.
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