Knife-wielding man shot by police in Sydney after slashing at officer

Police officers responding to a reported domestic violence incident in Sydney have fatally shot a knife-wielding 29-year-old man.

A knife-wielding man has been shot dead by police in Sydney’s southwest after attempting to slash and stab an officer during a violent confrontation.

Police said officers were confronted by a man wielding two knives while responding to reports of a domestic violence incident at William St, Yagoona shortly before 9am.

Officers used a taser to attempt to subdue the 29-year-old man after he threatened the officers, who were pursued outside the house.

“It is without a doubt frightening,” NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Stuart Smith said.

“The individual tried to slash and stab the female officer. She lost her footing, she fell backwards. He continued the attack.

NSW Police are investigating the fatal incident. Picture: NCA NewsWire /Brendan Beckett

“Momentarily his focus was then drawn to the male officer, who then deployed the service firearm.”

The man was shot and officers performed first aid until ambulance officers arrived.

The 29-year-old was taken to Liverpool Hospital, where he later died.

“A critical incident team comprised of officers from State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad will now investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the discharge of a police firearm,” NSW Police said in a statement.

“That investigation will be subject to independent review.”

Assistant Commissioner Smith said that CCTV footage was being examined and witnesses were being interviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.