Man dies in Thames firearms incident

Police cordon off Cambell Street in Thames. Photo / Steven McNicholl

A man at the centre of a firearms incident has been shot by police.

Police were called about midday today to a situation in the Thames region, where there was a significant threat of violence.

The Armed Offenders Squad and Police Negotiation Team were deployed to an address after it was established that a firearm was present.

The man confronted police with a firearm and was subsequently shot.

Detective Inspector Chris Page, Waikato District Manager of Criminal Investigations said: "This is a tragic incident and we extend our sincere sympathies to the family of the man involved."

First aid was immediately administered by police, but the man died a short while later at Thames Hospital.

Police are working with the family of the dead man, whose name has not been released.

Page said: "There will be a thorough investigation into what took place, which will include examining the actions of police staff and the circumstances surrounding the incident."

Police have advised the coroner and the Independent Police Conduct Authority, who are expected to launch their own investigation.

No further updates are expected until Sunday afternoon.