‘Champion’ Probationary Constable Samantha Petty saw mates shot

Just four weeks after graduating as a police officer, Samantha Petty was pitched into a life-or-death situation as she watched game hunter Eric Newman shoot her colleagues before turning the gun on himself.

• Game hunter ‘suddenly began to strangle’ wife in home

Just four weeks after graduating from Goulburn Police Academy, Samantha Petty was thrown into a life-or-death situation.

Shadowing two senior police officers in Glen Innes, Probationary Constable Petty watched Eric Newman, 74, shoot her colleagues before he turned the gun on himself.

But inexperience was no barrier Constable Petty dragged Senior Constable Helen McMurtrie from the driveway of the Church St home and sheltered behind a paddy wagon.

‘Champion’.... Probationary Constable Samantha Petty. Picture: Julian Andrews

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Despite nursing a gunshot injury of his own, Sergeant Mark Johnston also helped get Sen-Constable McMurtrie to safety.

Constable Petty was graduated in December before being assigned to to Glen Innes.

In the wake of Friday night’s shooting, police sources confirmed she was doing very well and had been offered counselling but was still working.

Shot.... Sergeant Mark Johnston and

Leading Senior Constable Helen McMurtie.

Police at the scene of the shooting on Saturday. Picture: Julian Andrews.

Eric John Newman with wife Lesley.

Police Minister Troy Grant described her as an “absolute champion”.

“She’s got her colleagues around her and family as well to help her comprehend this incident,” he said.

Sgt Johnston was in great spirits in hospital yesterday and reaching out to his family and friends, Mr Grant said.

Eric Newman, pictured with his wife Lesley, was an avid big-game hunter. Picture: Facebook

“It’s a miracle and it’s so lucky they’re alive — it’s a great reminder of how dangerous and how serious this situation is and was,” he said.

“They are doing remarkably well given the circumstances.

“Our sergeant has finished his surgery as we understand and is waiting for clearances to be released.

Emergency services workers at the house on Sunday where Eric Newman shot police officers from his balcony. Picture: Julian Andrews.

“Our leading senior constable, she’s doing remarkably well despite the significant injuries that she suffered and she’s in the best hands up there.”

Sen-Constable McMurtrie was placed in an induced coma on the weekend due to concern about swelling around her wounds.

It is understood most of the bullet fragments have been removed but she remains in a serious but stable condition.

Originally published as ‘Champion’ Probationary Constable Samantha Petty saw mates shot