A critical incident investigation has been launched as a search continues for a man last seen in the state's north-west.
About 2.30am last Saturday (10 July 2021), police saw a black Toyota Corolla hatchback being driven at high speed on the Newell Highway, Moree.
The vehicle was later found bogged near Yarraman Bridge on the Carnarvon Highway.
Officers attached to New England Police District attempted to speak with a man at the scene; however, he allegedly ran from police and was seen entering the Gwydir River.
An initial search was initiated involving crews from Fire and Rescue NSW, the NSW Rural Fire Service and State Emergency Service without success.
A further search was conducted involving officers from Police Rescue, Police Diving Unit, officers on trail bikes and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), assisted by volunteers from SES, RFS, VRA and the local community.
At this time the man has not been located.
A critical incident team from the Oxley Police will now investigate all circumstances surrounding the incident.
That investigation will be overseen by the Professional Standards Command.
No further details are available at this time; however, police are appealing for witnesses to come forward. Anyone who can assist police should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
