Canterbury’s top police officer has confirmed three investigations are underway after a woman was shot dead and a man critically injured by police in Bryndwr last night.

Officers were called to a Clyde Road home about 11pm after reports of a man armed with a knife and threatening to harm himself and his partner.

When police arrived, the woman ran from the house, followed by the man with the knife. Believing she was in immediate danger, officers shot the man, critically injuring him.

Police said the woman then picked up the knife, threatened officers, and moved toward them. She was shot, given immediate medical treatment, but died a short time later.

The same officer fired both shots at the man and woman. Superintendent Tony Hill would not comment on that officer but said all involved were “obviously distressed” and were being supported.

“This is a tragedy, not just for our people, but very much for the families that are involved here,” Hill said.

He confirmed only the man and woman were present at the time, with no children living at the address.

Hill said police had launched their own critical incident investigation, led by a senior officer from outside the district, alongside an Independent Police Conduct Authority investigation and an internal review into policies and procedures.

Questions about the couple’s history with police, possible drug or alcohol involvement, or where the pair were shot would form part of the investigation.

Hill rejected suggestions police operated under any “shoot to kill” policy. “Our staff use firearms in the protection of themselves and others. The actions of police are going to be subject to investigation, and we need that process to unfold,” he said.

Officers have spoken with the families of those involved and will continue to offer them support. Clyde Road remains partially closed with scene guards in place.