Driver shot dead after turning gun on officers at crash scene

A MAN who crashed his car into a tree in southern New South Wales has been shot dead by police after allegedly pulling a gun on officers who tried to help him. 

The deadly confrontation unfolded in the tiny village of Rugby, about 84km north of Yass in the NSW Southern Tablelands, on Sunday afternoon, October 4.

Police say they were called to reports of a single-vehicle crash on Corringle Lane, near Rugby Road, shortly before 2.50pm, with officers from The Hume Police District arriving to find a Chrysler station wagon had crashed into a tree.

A NSW Police spokesperson said officers were trying to help the driver, who was still inside the vehicle and appeared to be unconscious, when they were forced to open fire.

“Police approached the man and attempted to render aid, however, as they did the man allegedly aimed a rifle at officers before being shot by police,” a NSW Police spokesperson said.

“Officers immediately commenced CPR on the driver, however, he died at the scene.”

The man has not been formally identified but is believed to be aged 45.

No police officers were injured in the incident.

A crime scene has been established, with a critical incident investigation now underway.

The circumstances surrounding the shooting will be investigated by a critical incident team from State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad.

The investigation will also be subject to an independent review by the Professional Standards Command and oversight by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission.