TUNCURRY, New South Wales — A man has been shot dead by police on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales after a violent morning rampage that involved a home invasion, the stabbing of a woman, multiple carjackings and an extensive pursuit across several communities, authorities say. The incident has prompted a critical incident investigation by senior detectives amid questions about domestic violence and the use of force by law enforcement.
Violent Home Invasion Sparks Emergency Response
Just before 6.40 am on Friday, officers from the Manning Great Lakes police district were called to a residence on Heath Avenue in Tuncurry following reports that a man armed with a chainsaw and a large knife had broken into a home and stabbed a 28-year-old woman.
When police arrived at the property, paramedics were already treating the woman, who had suffered multiple stab wounds to her neck and upper body. She was later airlifted to John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle in a serious but stable condition, law enforcement confirmed.
Assistant Commissioner David Waddell later indicated police were investigating whether the incident stemmed from domestic violence, noting the pair were believed to have been in a de facto relationship.
Man Flees, Carjacks Vehicles and Injures Officer
After the stabbing, the alleged assailant — identified in local media reports as 41-year-old Kayne Green — fled the scene in a white 4WD. Police located the ute on Stewart Parade in Tuncurry and initiated a pursuit. The suspect then carjacked a four-wheel drive at a nearby service station, officers said, before driving erratically across a sportsground.
The chase continued over the Forster-Tuncurry Bridge, where the car eventually crashed. After the crash, the man allegedly took another vehicle and, in the course of the pursuit, rammed a police car, resulting in minor injuries to an officer.
Police followed the suspect to Rainbow Flat, where — still armed with a knife — he reportedly broke into another home and attempted to steal yet another vehicle, threatening its occupants in the process.
Confrontation and Use of Lethal Force
Officers confronted the armed man outside the property. Despite attempts to restrain him, including deploying a Taser multiple times, he continued to pose a threat. According to NSW Police, the man charged at an officer with the knife, prompting a police firearm to be discharged.
Emergency responders provided first aid at the scene, but the man could not be revived and died on site. Authorities have not yet formally confirmed his identity, but multiple reports identified him as Green.
Investigation and Oversight
The shooting has triggered a critical incident declaration, which means senior detectives from the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad will lead a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the event. The probe will also be monitored by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission and the police’s Professional Standards Command to ensure independent oversight.
Assistant Commissioner Waddell emphasised that investigators will look into all aspects of the case, including potential domestic violence history, mental health factors and the influence of drugs or alcohol, as part of the review.
Community Impact and Safety Reassurances
Residents in Tuncurry and surrounding areas were left shaken by the early-morning ordeal, which unfolded across multiple suburbs and involved several emergency call-outs over the course of hours. Local witnesses described hearing sirens, observing the high-speed pursuit and coming face-to-face with the dramatic police response.
Police have assured the public there is no ongoing risk following the deadly confrontation and have encouraged anyone with dashcam or CCTV footage relevant to the incident to come forward. Officers involved in the shooting have been offered counselling and support, consistent with NSW Police protocols after critical incidents.
Broader Context
Fatal police shootings, while rare, are subject to heightened public scrutiny in New South Wales. Independent investigations help determine whether officers’ actions were lawful and necessary in the face of imminent danger. This incident, involving a suspected violent offender armed with deadly weapons and actively threatening life, will be examined closely to assess compliance with use-of-force standards.
As the inquiry progresses, further details on the motivations behind the attack and the events leading up to the confrontation are expected to emerge, providing clarity for both the victims and the community.
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