Three Policemen Shot Dead in France

Three policemen were killed and a fourth wounded in a shooting that took place in central France while responding to a domestic violence incident.

On Tuesday night, a 48-year-old man shot the officers at an isolated hamlet near Saint-Just in the Puy-de-Dome region, as they tried to rescue a woman who had taken refuge in a house.

According to France 24 website, the gunman initially shot and killed one officer and wounding another, before setting fire to the house. Then Two other officers were fired on and killed.

A source close to the investigation told "AFP", that "utmost precautions are being taken regarding the  dangerousness of this person," pointing out that the gunman is known to the authorities on charges related to child custody issues."

Officials assured that the woman has been safely rescued.

According to a statement issued by the interior ministry, the officers killed were aged 21, 37, and 45.

On his part, Saint-Just Mayor François Chautard said the incident appeared to have started with a family dispute. Moreover, he added that armed gendarme units were sent to the scene to evacuate nearby residents and secure the area.

Firefighters rushed to the scene to control the blaze.