In a harrowing incident that took place during the early hours of Monday morning, 3 July 2023, a man has been taken into police custody after holding his family hostage in their Signal Hill home.
According to an official police source, the alarming situation unfolded shortly after midnight on Taurus Avenue, Aviary Hill, when the Newcastle Police received distress calls regarding a domestic violence case.
Providing further details, the police source revealed that a young man had barricaded his parents inside the house, effectively holding them hostage. In response to the urgent situation, the officers obtained consent from the homeowner and proceeded to forcefully enter the premises.
“The officers penetrated the house in search of the suspect, who was in the lounge area. Whilst the officers moved tactfully in the passage and approached the lounge, the suspect began firing rapidly towards the direction of the police members,” explained the police source.
During the intense encounter, a projectile ricocheted and struck a K9 unit officer on his right thigh, causing injury.
“The suspect on completion of all the ammunition in his firearm, hastily exited the house through the lounge door, where he fell to the ground and was apprehended by the police,” added the source.
Authorities successfully recovered the firearm used by the suspect, which was subsequently logged as evidence, while the suspect was detained at Newcastle SAPS. Additionally, a second firearm belonging to the suspect’s father was seized by the police.
The injured officer was promptly transported to the hospital for medical treatment.
Meanwhile, the suspect is facing multiple charges, including attempted murder, possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, and resisting arrest, according to the police source.
As investigations into this distressing incident continue, we invite our readers to share their thoughts and perspectives in the comment section below..
