A critical incident investigation is underway after a man died in the state's Hunter region overnight.
Just after 9pm (Sunday 18 June 2023), officers from Port Stephens-Hunter Police District were called to a home in Sproule Crescent, Thornton, over concerns for a man's welfare.
Police were told the 36-year-old man, who was armed with a firearm, had left the property in a vehicle.
Following inquiries, the vehicle was located travelling on Newline Road, Seaham, a short time later.
When the vehicle did not stop, a police pursuit was initiated.
The vehicle came to a stop near Stockton Beach, Williamtown, and the man ran onto the beach.
He was located deceased suffering a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
A crime scene was established and a critical incident team from Tuggerah Lakes Police District will now investigate all circumstances surrounding the incident.
That investigation will be subject to an independent review.
A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.
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.
