Police Shoot Man on Sunshine Coast After Alleged Armed Confrontation

Police shot a 32-year-old man on Queensland's Sunshine Coast following a single-vehicle crash and an alleged armed confrontation with officers. The man, identified as Dominic Reece Bryham, sustained a serious shoulder wound and has since been charged with multiple offenses, including serious assault on police while armed and weapons-related charges. He remains in custody.

Dominic Reece Bryham, 32, sustained a serious shoulder wound and has been charged with multiple offenses, including serious assault on police while armed and weapons-related charges.

Incident Unfolds on Sunshine Coast

The incident commenced just before midday when police were called to a single-vehicle crash involving a white hatchback on the Sunshine Motorway on-ramp at Sippy Downs. The driver, identified as Mr. Bryham, allegedly fled the initial crash scene while reportedly armed.

Pursuit and Confrontation

Police reports indicate that after leaving the crash site, Mr. Bryham exited the hatchback and entered a white utility vehicle. Authorities stated he was given a lift by another man following the initial crash. Police subsequently located the utility vehicle on Nambour Connection Road in Woombye, approximately 10 kilometers north of Sippy Downs.

Upon police engagement, Mr. Bryham reportedly exited the utility vehicle and approached officers while allegedly armed with a gun. Police discharged their firearms, resulting in Mr. Bryham sustaining a serious wound to his shoulder.

Aftermath and Public Safety Measures

Officers provided immediate first aid to Mr. Bryham at the scene. Paramedics then transported him to Sunshine Coast University Hospital, where he was reported to be in stable condition.

Following the event, Nambour Connection Road was blocked in both directions. Nearby Suncoast Christian College was informed by police that the area was safe, allowing for normal student pickup procedures.

Detective Acting Inspector Kerri Della-Bedova confirmed that the alleged gunman was given a lift by another man after the initial crash. She did not confirm if the individual was wanted by police prior to the incident.

Charges Laid and Court Appearance

Dominic Reece Bryham, 32, has appeared in court facing a dozen charges.

These include:

• Five counts of serious assault on police while armed.
• Two counts of unlawful possession of a weapon (including a specific charge relating to a revolver).
• Going armed to cause fear.
• Possession of a dangerous drug.
• Dangerous operation of a motor vehicle.

Mr. Bryham did not apply for bail and remains in custody. His case is scheduled to return to Maroochydore Magistrates Court on March 30.

Independent Investigation Underway

The Ethical Standards Command will investigate the matter, with oversight provided by the Crime and Corruption Commission, as is standard procedure for police shootings.