In Rochdale, a 19-year-old man was shot in the leg on Thursday afternoon, suffering life-changing injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening, according to multiple reports. Police believe the shooting was a targeted attack and there is no wider threat to the public. No arrests have been made in the investigation as of Thursday night. A burning car found three miles from the shooting scene is part of the investigation. Superintendent Lucy Smallwood of the Rochdale district stated that the incident would cause concern for the local community and that officers were working quickly to understand the circumstances. She added that officers would remain in the community to provide reassurance and that the investigation is ongoing with police actively seeking suspects.
In Brisbane, a 19-year-old man was shot twice by police on Wednesday after allegedly pulling out a large kitchen knife during a welfare check, according to multiple reports. He was taken to Royal Brisbane Hospital in critical condition with two gunshot wounds to the abdomen. The mother of the victim was present during the incident and called for assistance. A first-year constable fired the shots, and a taser was deployed at some point during the incident. Detective Superintendent Andrew Massingham said in a press conference that the call for assistance came from the mother, who was distressed and traumatized. He added that the timing of the shots would be part of the investigation and that the man had previously received mental health treatment.
The Brisbane shooting will be investigated by the Ethical Standards Command with oversight by the Crime and Corruption Commission, as confirmed by police. Massingham reflected that the incident was traumatic for all involved and that using force is a last option for police. The current medical condition and prognosis for both victims remain unknown, as do the specific details of what transpired during the welfare check in Brisbane. Investigations in both cases are ongoing, with authorities urging the public to come forward with any information.