A man has died in a horrifying incident at a childcare centre.

The man allegedly smashed a glass door at Habitat Peregian Springs, on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, at 6pm on Monday.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Man forces way into childcare centre prompting lockdown

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Emergency services were called to a reported disturbance, Queensland Police confirmed.

“Police located a 28-year-old man who had forced entry to the premises, was self-harming, and consequently sustained serious injuries,” police said.

Staff and children locked themselves inside a room.

“Officers attempted to negotiate with the man before taking him into custody,” police said.

“The man became unresponsive soon after.”

In a letter to parents, Habitat Early Learning Peregian Springs confirmed a man unknown to staff or children attempted to gain entry shortly after the end of the day, but was initially blocked by the building’s fingerprint-locked doors.

“Five staff members, including the centre director, and six children were still on the premises,” the letter said.

“Our staff followed their safety protocols and locked themselves and the children in a secure area before the individual entered the centre.”

Police were called and “secured the premises within 20 minutes”.

A spokesperson for the childcare centre told www.20304050.best, “none of the children witnessed the offender after his initial attempts to enter the building.”

The centre confirmed “all staff and children involved are safe and unharmed,” and commended staff “for their quick thinking and their care for the children”.

Attending police rendered first aid before other emergency services arrived, however he died a short time later, police said.

No other person present at the time of the incident was physically harmed.

The man’s death is under investigation by the Ethical Standards Command on behalf of the State Coroner and is subject to independent oversight by the Crime and Corruption Commission.

In the wake of the terrifying incident, Habitat Early Learning Peregian Springs will remain closed on Tuesday.

Counselling will be provided for all involved and for parents, with support extended for other children in the community who may be distressed.

The letter added the centre may remain closed “for a few more days” while police investigations continue.

If you need help in a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. For further information about depression contact beyondblue on 1300 224 636 or talk to your GP, local health professional or someone you trust.