Constable Keith Anthony Smith, 57, was shot and killed at a rural property in North Motton yesterday as he attended the scene with another officer to serve a court-ordered warrant to repossess the home.

Commissioner Donna Adams said the officer had a “distinguished career” with Tasmania Police and was highly regarded by his colleagues.

“Keith was a respected and committed officer, and his loss will be deeply felt across our policing family and the wider community,” Adams said.

“My heart goes out to Keith’s wife and family. We will be supporting them in every way we can during this incredibly difficult time.

“The Blue Family will come together today, and over the next days and weeks, and will support the family and each other.”

Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff said today the “tragedy” had rocked the community, which shared in the grief of Smith’s loved ones.

“Yesterday, a proud and brave Tasmanian man, Constable Keith Smith, started his day by putting on his Tasmania Police Union form,” Rockliff said.

“A day that began like many others, tragically, Constable Smith did not return home

”The heartbreak of this tragedy will be felt clearly in this local community of Ulverstone, the central coast, the entire western district and indeed in every corner of the state of Tasmania.”

Smith joined the Tasmanian police force in September 2000 and graduated from the academy in May 2001.

He received the Commissioner’s Medal in 2011 as well as the National Police Service Medal in 2016.

Smith received the 20-year clasp in 2021.

Police Minister Felix Ellis said support was available for anybody affected by the officer’s death.

“We want to reach out to everyone who’s been affected by this and say that support is available to you,” Ellis said.

“We’re here for each other, and these are some of the moments where the true Tasmanian spirit comes through because we’re a small place that looks after everyone.”

Adams praised the investigators who have been working on the case.

”While no other staff have been injured in this terrible incident, all will be impacted by their involvement in such a tragic event,” Adams said.

A 46-year-old man from North Motton remains in hospital under police guard.

He underwent surgery for non-life-threatening injuries.

No charges have been laid yet.