Good Morning Britain was interrupted on Tuesday morning as newsreader Marverine Cole shared a breaking news announcement
Tuesday’s edition of Good Morning Britain was disrupted by a breaking news bulletin following a devastating incident in Australia.
Just moments into the ITV programme, newsreader Marverine Cole delivered news of a shooting in Porepunkah, a small tourist destination in Victoria, South-Eastern Australia, which had claimed the lives of two police officers.
“Some breaking news now. Two police officers are reported to have been killed in a shooting in Australia, according to broadcasters there,” Marverine solemnly informed GMB audiences.
She continued: “The shooter is still believed to be on the run in Victoria. We’ll bring you more on this news throughout the morning.”
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During a subsequent update, Marverine provided additional information about the Australian incident and the events that had transpired, reports the Mirror.
“Local media say police had been in the town of Porepunkah, around 200 miles from Melbourne in the state of Victoria, to serve a warrant when the shooting took place.
“Schools have been placed on lockdown, and dog squads, armed vehicles, and tactical teams have been deployed. Victoria Police say the situation is still active, people have been told not to venture out, and they’ll provide more information when it’s operationally safe to do so.
“It’s reported that the shooter is in possession of police firearms. Officials have paid tribute to the officers killed, with the town’s Mayor saying it’s a day of ‘deep sorrow’ and ‘shock’ for the community, that is grieving together.”
News of the shooting broke on Tuesday morning, making headlines worldwide as more details of the incident came to light.
Richard Madeley and Charlotte Hawkins on Good Morning Britain (Image: ITV)
Sarah Nicholas, Mayor of Alpine Shire Council, confirmed the death of two police officers via social media.
She also posted a statement about the “emotional” afternoon that locals had experienced, describing it as “unsettling” and a “shock” for the community.
“Today has been a day of deep sorrow and shock for our community… We are grieving together,” wrote Mayor Sarah, along with a tribute to those who lost their lives, where she extended “thoughts, love, and unwavering” support to the affected families.
She continued, “We hold our police in the highest regard. They serve with courage, compassion, and dedication, and their loss is felt profoundly across our region.”
Sarah expressed gratitude to locals for adhering to police guidance and teachers for maintaining calm among children, before urging all residents to “please stay safe”.
Good Morning Britain airs at 6am on weekdays on ITV1 and ITVX.