Three police are in critical conditions and two firefighters are injured following an explosion in Melbourne
Three police officers are fighting for their lives after an explosion in a block of flats at Middle Park over night Photo: Chris Scott Source: News Limited
A MELBOURNE police officer is fighting for her life and five others have been injured in an explosion during a call to a flat in the southern Melbourne suburb of Middle Park last night.
The officer sustained burns to 90 per cent of her body, and she and another female officer remain in a critical but stable condition. A male officer is in a serious but stable condition, while two firefighters have been hospitalised with non-life-threatening injuries, along with the male occupant of the flat, aged in his mid-to-late thirties, who remains under police guard.
Police were called to the Hambleton St flat at about 9.15pm after reports of a man threatening to harm himself.
As they entered the second floor flat, accompanied by firefighters, a large explosion occurred. Acting Assistant Commissioner Doug Fryer said detectives would remain at the scene throughout today as they pieced together what had happened.
"It's early days yet. We've got a crime scene on site... and a number of members from crime command," he said.
"There could have been injuries to other people; thankfully there was not - only those inside the room," he told reporters.
"This is part of the danger of law enforcement. Most days everyone gets home, but unfortunately we've had a tragedy."
Witnesses have described hearing glass shattering and screams of agony following the blast. Police have asked for anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Anyone with any information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppers.com.au
For information about the prevention of suicide contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Additional reporting: AAP
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