Pakenham Upper pursuit, officers open fire

A man has received gun shot wounds to his leg following an incident in Pakenham Upper. 137393_04

By Mitchell Clarke

A man has been shot after allegedly threatening police with knives following a pursuit which ended in Pakenham Upper.

When approached by police, the man who is believed to be in his 30s, allegedly got out of the vehicle and threatened officers while armed with knives.

Victoria Police say officers were initially investigating a serious assault which occurred at a property in Endeavour Hills about 3pm on Wednesday 25 March.

Almost six hours later, just before 9pm, police spotted a yellow Hyundai in Narre Warren, which was believed to be connected to the same incident.

Witnesses had reported that vehicle driving erratically, at speed and on the wrong side of some roads.

The vehicle was later seen driving through surrounding suburbs including Emerald and Cockatoo before a pursuit of the car began just after 9pm, police say.

As the vehicle was pursued along Pakenham Road, police deployed stop sticks and were able to bring the chase to a halt.

It’s understood the man got out of his vehicle when he was approached by officers, allegedly threatening them while armed.

Victoria Police have confirmed that a firearm was discharged and the man suffered a gunshot wound to the leg. He was taken to The Alfred hospital but his condition is unknown.

Armed Crime Taskforce are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, which will also be overseen by the Professional Standards Command, as per protocol.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.