A woman has been accidentally shot in the leg by police while firing at an allegedly armed man on Cairns.
Police were called about 5.10pm on Saturday to Benjamina St at Mount Sheridan following reports of a 28-year-old man armed with knives.
“The male was confronted by occupants during those break-ins and as it’s alleged that he has stolen two large knives before moving out onto the street,” Assistant Commissioner Graeme Paine said.
“The male person was subsequently the subject of multiple triple-0 calls from neighbouring properties due to his ongoing behaviour and the fact that he was out in the street carrying the knives.”
He said a “number of attempts” were made to detain the man, who was allegedly armed with knives.
The man was shot in the leg and arm by police, who were attempting to negotiate with him.
“Police then have discharged a number of rounds from service firearms to effect the arrest of the male,” he said.
During the altercation a 50-year-old woman, who lived nearby, was also shot in the lower leg.
“It was a busy residential and traffic area, it appears that one of the bullets that was discharged from the firearm has struck this lady in the lower leg,” he said.
He said the incident was an “extremely dangerous situation”.
“It’s an extremely dangerous situation, we are well aware of what can happen with knives in a public place,” he said.
Both the man and woman have been treated by paramedics and are in a stable condition.
The man has since been charged with two counts of wilful damage, and one count each of enter dwelling and commit, enter dwelling with intent, attempted unlawful use of a motor vehicle, attempted robbery, attempted enter premises with intent to commit indictable offence, and going armed to cause fear.
He has been refused bail and is due to face Cairns Magistrates Court on Monday.
Police said there is no ongoing threat to the community.
The incident will be investigated by the Ethical Standard Command with oversight from the Crime and Corruption Commission.
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