Critical Incident Investigation Launched After Man Fatally Shot by Police Near Rugby

A critical incident investigation is underway after a man was fatally shot by police following a vehicle crash in southern New South Wales on Sunday afternoon, according to NSW Police.

Emergency services were called around 2:50 p.m. on Sunday, 4 October 2026, to Corringle Lane near Rugby Road in Rugby, approximately 84 kilometers north of Yass, after receiving reports that a car had crashed into a tree. Officers from The Hume Police District arrived to find a Chrysler station wagon that had struck a tree, with the driver appearing unconscious in the front seat.

According to police, officers approached the vehicle to render aid, at which point the man allegedly aimed a rifle at them. Officers then shot the man. While police initiated CPR immediately following the shooting, the man died at the scene. He is believed to be 45 years old, though formal identification has not yet taken place. No police officers were injured.

A crime scene was established, and a critical incident team from the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad has been assigned to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The investigation will undergo an independent review by the Professional Standards Command and will be overseen by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC).

Authorities have asked anyone with information regarding the incident to contact Crime Stoppers.

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