Townsville police union supports officers after hotel shooting

A Queensland police union leader expressed confidence in officers after they shot a 17-year-old girl allegedly wielding a knife in Townsville. The girl is now in stable condition following surgery. Police responded to reports of threats at the West End Hotel's beer garden Tuesday evening. Officers claim the teenager threatened them, leading to one officer firing a shot. The Ethical Standards Command is investigating. This is the second police shooting in Townsville this year. The union president also raised concerns about mental health support in the city, suggesting it may be a contributing factor.