UPDATED: Man Holding Sharpened Ornamental Shovel Allegedly Shot by Police in Mayfield

15 February 2025

Live Article – Bookmark this page as it will be updated as more information comes to hand.
newy.com.au – A critical incident investigation is underway after Newcastle City Police shot a man in Mayfield on Saturday afternoon, 15 February 2025.

At approximately 4:10 pm, police responded to a domestic violence-related call at a unit block on Hanbury Street. Upon arrival, they were attacked unexpectedly by a man wielding an ornamental shovel with a sharpened blade. Police initially attempted to subdue him using a Taser, but it was ineffective. As the situation escalated, officers fired shots into his body, striking him in the abdomen.

Police provided immediate first aid before NSW Ambulance paramedics arrived. A total of six paramedics worked on the man, including intensive care paramedics. Due to the serious nature of his injuries, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter was also dispatched, carrying a critical care doctor and paramedic.

The man was sedated and placed into an induced coma before being urgently transported to John Hunter Hospital with police assistance. Upon arrival, he was taken into emergency surgery. He remains in a serious but stable condition.

During a press conference, police clarified that the weapon was not a meat cleaver, as originally reported, but an ornamental shovel with a sharpened edge, which posed a real threat to officers.

Police confirmed that the man is known to them, but declined to reveal details, stating it was part of the ongoing independent investigation. When questioned about whether the incident was drug- or mental health-related, police refused to comment.

Officers described the situation as unexpected, saying there was no indication of any escalation before they arrived. They emphasised that these incidents unfold within seconds, and that officers acted in accordance with their training.

Both officers involved are reported to be shaken up following the confrontation and shooting. Police acknowledged that these events have an emotional impact on all involved, including the officers, the injured man, and his family.

NSW Police stated they provide significant support to officers involved in critical incidents, including psychological services, chaplains, and assistance from the Police Association.

The critical incident investigation remains ongoing and will be subject to an independent review. Police would not confirm whether the man had acted violently in the past, stating that this will form part of the investigation.

Authorities are urging anyone who witnessed the incident to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.

Further updates will be provided as more information emerges.

Following the incident, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter landed nearby, and local pages on social media were flooded with claimed firsthand accounts. NSW Police have urged anyone who witnessed the event to come forward, asking them to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.

Further updates will be provided as more details emerge.

Know More? Contact Crimestoppers:

If you witnessed this incident, or know more information, please place a report with nsw.crimestoppers.com.au or phone 1800 333 000, you may choose to remain anonymous when reporting via crimestoppers.