A 49-year-old man was shot dead by police on the New South Wales Central Coast after a welfare check turned into a six-hour standoff on Wednesday evening. Police arrived at a home in Springfield just after 3:30pm with a mental health clinician to check on the man's welfare. Assistant Commissioner David Waddell said the man armed himself with a screwdriver and other sharp objects. Police tried to subdue him using stun guns and pepper spray but failed. Tactical officers were called in to assist. Around six hours later, the man lit an aerosol can inside the house. When officers entered, the man grabbed a sharp object, believed to be glass, and tried to stab one officer, hitting his protective clothing. Several officers then fired at the man, who was treated by paramedics but died at the scene. One police officer suffered minor injuries. The State Crime Command’s homicide squad will lead an investigation. Assistant Commissioner Waddell said, "There will be a critical incident investigation team that will review the actions of police to ensure they are in line with our policy and legislation." He called the event "a very tragic set of circumstances" and "very sad for the family and also very tough for our police." The man was known to police but had limited history. The investigation could take months. Police will also prepare a brief for the coroner.