Two police officers have been shot dead in an Australian town, police have confirmed.
Victoria Police said the officers were killed after responding to an incident at a property in Porepunkah, around 300km north-east of Melbourne, at 10.30am local time.
A third officer was shot in the lower body and left seriously injured.
**ARE YOU READING THIS ON OUR APP? DOWNLOAD NOW FOR THE BEST GB NEWS EXPERIENCE**
Police said the gunman's whereabouts remain "unknown", with a search underway to find him.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors.
In its latest statement, Victoria Police said: "The exact circumstances surrounding the incident are still being determined and it remains an active and ongoing situation.
"It’s believed the offender has since left the property and at this time his whereabouts are unknown.
"A significant search is actively underway to locate the man.
"We urge the public in and around the township of Porepunkah to remain indoors until further notice. We also ask people not to travel into the area.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Victoria Police officers are at the scene of the incident
| GETTY"Detectives from the Homicide Squad will investigate the incident and will attend the scene along with detectives from the Armed Crime Squad and Fugitive Squad.
"Police from the Special Operations Group and Critical Incident Response Team also remain on scene."
An Ambulance Victoria spokesman confirmed it had treated one person for "serious lower body injuries" and transported in an air ambulance in a "stable condition".
Local media report that police visited the property to serve a warrant for historical sex abuse allegations when two officers were shot dead and another wounded in an ambush attack.
The gunman is said to have been on the run with several family members, including children.
Australian Federal Police Commissioner Reece Kershaw said there were “grave concerns” for the police officers involved.
“Just from the police blue family, the wider family across Australia and overseas, our thoughts and prayers are with Victoria police right now,” Mr Kershaw said at a news conference.
Local mayor, Sarah Nicholas, said in a statement on social media: "Today has been a day of deep sorrow and shock for our community.
"First and foremost, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the two police officers tragically killed in Porepunkah.
"Our thoughts, love, and unwavering support are with you during this incredibly painful time.
"We hold our police in the highest regard. They serve with courage, compassion, and dedication, and their loss is felt profoundly across our region."
Local council's facilities across the town including libraries, information centres and depots have closed, Ms Nicholas said.
Porepunkah Primary School principal Jill Gillies told Australian media that the school was forced to lockdown, with around 90 students sheltering indoors from 11.30am local time.
Porepunkah Primary School was put in lockdown conditions
|REUTERS
The local airfield has also shut due to the ongoing emergency response.
The Porepunkah Pub has meanwhile confirmed it will be closed tonight "following advice from Victorian Police".
The safety of our staff, guests, and community is our priority, the pub wrote to Facebook.
"We’ll provide updates as more information becomes available and look forward to welcoming you back soon."
Victoria Police has confirmed two police officers were shot and killed
|REUTERS
Jacinta Allan, the Premier of Victoria, has urged residents to avoid the area.
She wrote to X: "A police operation is currently underway in Porepunkah, in Victoria’s Northeast.
"I have been briefed by the Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police. This situation remains active.
"Victoria Police officers, and all our first responders, show extraordinary bravery and courage every single day.
"They are the best of us – and the thoughts of all Victorians are with them today. Please follow the advice of Victoria Police and avoid the area."
The town of Porepunkah is home to 1,000 residents and is located at the base of Australia’s alpine ranges.
More From GB News