Wanted Australian Man Gunned Down by Police in Townsville

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A 31-year-old man was shot and critically injured by Queensland Police at a Townsville shopping centre, reigniting concerns over escalating armed confrontations and policing strategies in the region.

On Sunday, July 27, 2025 at about 3:15 p.m., officers responded to sightings of the man at Willows Shopping Centre on Carthew Street, Thuringowa Central. A confrontation unfolded in a loading dock near Big W, where an officer discharged a firearm during the encounter. The man, who was known to police and wanted for serious alleged offences, received immediate first aid at the scene before being transported to Townsville University Hospital, where he remains in critical condition. Two crime scenes were established—one at the loading dock and another where the suspect’s vehicle was located.

Acting Superintendent Damien Crosby described the case as a tragic event and assured the public there is no ongoing threat to community safety. The incident is now being investigated by the Ethical Standards Command, with independent oversight from the Crime and Corruption Commission.

This marks the second police-involved shooting in Townsville in just over a week. On July 19, officers shot and killed a man in North Ward who was armed with a machete and knife, following what authorities said was a failed taser deployment. That earlier incident has raised questions around equipment reliability and tactical readiness.

This latest shooting is the third in Townsville this year involving police use of firearms, following separate incidents in January and June. Community advocates and critics are increasingly concerned about the rising number of violent encounters, often involving individuals facing mental health crises or alleged gang activity. They argue that broader systemic issues require urgent attention, beyond law enforcement responses alone.

The Queensland Police Union has pushed for accelerated rollout of newer equipment such as the Taser 10, citing gaps in officer protection during recent incidents. While the new devices are expected to be introduced statewide by 2026, officers involved in the July 19 case did not yet have access to the latest models.

Authorities continue to call for witnesses or anyone with relevant information or dashcam footage to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.