Two male officers from Murray River Police District were patrolling Redgums Dve, Moama, when they noticed a man running out of a shed towards a white Ford Falcon utility, believed to be stolen, about 11.30pm on April 5.
As police approached, the man, armed with a rifle, entered the ute and drove towards the marked police car, ramming it several times before reversing through a metal fence.
Murray River Police District western sectors Inspector Paul Huggett said the shed was being forensically examined.
‘‘We’re making inquiries into whether the firearm was stolen from the shed or was brought with him,’’ he said.
The ute, with stolen Victorian registration plates, was last seen driving in an easterly direction along Perricoota Rd.
The officers were not injured during the incident and the police car sustained minor damage.
Insp Huggett said one of the officers deserved praise for the actions he took in a dangerous situation.
‘‘He’s gone up to the ute and cracked the window with his baton to try to arrest the man,’’ he said.
‘‘Police did an excellent job and had every right to draw fire. They handled the situation appropriately but he got away.
‘‘Sometimes you’ve got to weigh up the risks to the community when it comes to engaging in a pursuit.’’
Insp Huggett said police were working with Victoria Police in case the man had crossed the border.
‘‘We’re working as a team and speaking on a daily basis to make sure we’re not missing anything,’’ he said.
Police are appealing for information and have described the man as being about 175cm tall, wearing dark clothing with his face covered with a balaclava.
Insp Huggett also urged the community to report suspicious activity when it happened, not hours or days later.
‘‘We need to know what’s going on and when. Although we might not always be able to get there straight away, it gives us the intelligence to patrol a particular area,’’ he said.
‘‘The community are our eyes and ears. You might prevent you or your neighbour from being broken into.’’
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or nsw.crimestoppers.com.au
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