A young Australian girl was killed and her father and older brother seriously injured after police in Punjab province, Pakistan, opened fire during a chase of robbery suspects on June 10, 2026 [1]. The family were visiting relatives in Chakwal, Punjab, when motorbike-riding suspects, one armed, reportedly robbed them and fled [2, 1]. Police mistakenly fired on the family’s rental car, believing it was driven by the suspects [2, 1].
The deceased girl was reported as nine years old by one source and ten by another [2, 1]. The girl’s mother was unharmed in the incident [2, 1]. The family is from Perth, Western Australia [2, 1].
Pakistani police launched a criminal investigation following a complaint by the girl's father. An officer involved has been arrested, charged, and remanded pending proceedings [1]. Punjab police pledged a thorough and fair investigation and accountability for any procedural violations [1].
The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed it is providing consular assistance to the family. A spokesperson said, "We send our deepest condolences to the family at this difficult time" [2].
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed sorrow over the death, stating the incident "导致一名年幼女童丧命，令人痛心，当局必须确保调查过程透明，并展开全面调查" (resulted in the death of a young girl, which is heartbreaking; authorities must ensure a transparent and comprehensive investigation) [1].
Asim Chaudhry of the Pakistani Association of Western Australia described the news as "very shocking, especially the death of the nine-year-old" [2].
The incident remains under investigation. The arrested officer faces charges as authorities pursue legal accountability following the fatal shooting in Punjab province [1].
