New South Wales police have formed a critical investigation unit after officers shot a man dead at Collarenabri in the state's north-west.
Around 9:30pm (AEST) last night a 44 year old man became involved in an altercation with police.
It is alleged he hit one of the officers in the head with a weapon and was shot dead by police.
The injured officer was taken to hospital.
A critical investigation unit including officers from the homicide squad has been formed to investigate the shooting and a number of incidents that occurred in the lead up to the man's death.
Police say that earlier in the evening they received a complaint about a man having committed an assault where a knife was produced.
They saw the man driving his car and told him to stop but police allege he ignored the direction.
During a pursuit, police claim the man rammed a police vehicle and caused minor injuries to the officers on board, then escaped on foot after the crash.
Shortly before 9.30(AEST), police received information that the man was in a house in Barwon Street, Collarenebri.
They went into the house, where they allege the man threatened police with a tyre lever and unsuccessful attempts were made to subdue him with OC spray and a Taser.
A senior constable attempted to take hold of the man but was struck a number of times to the head and arm with the tyre lever and, fearing for his safety, fired his service pistol.
The man lost consciousness and could not be revived despite police performing CPR.
Crash investigators will also examine the crash site which is just west of the Collarenebri township.
A report will be prepared for the coroner.
Police will hold a press conference at Collarenebri later today to give an update on the shooting.
ABC
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