Story perspectives

Calls for Police Reform After Fatal 'Less-Lethal' Incidents

3/1/2026

Summary

Story summary

Police shot three individuals with 'less-lethal' projectiles and Tasers in Australia, resulting in their deaths and prompting inquests and civil cases.
Inquests into the deaths of Mark Smith, Krista Kach, and Steven Woodhouse revealed troubling details about police use of force.
Mark Smith's death involved multiple projectiles and Tasers.
Krista Kach's death was linked to a bean-bag round striking her heart.
Families are calling for reforms to prevent future fatalities.

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Story summary

Police shot three individuals with 'less-lethal' projectiles and Tasers in Australia, resulting in their deaths and prompting inquests and civil cases.
Inquests into the deaths of Mark Smith, Krista Kach, and Steven Woodhouse revealed troubling details about police use of force.
Mark Smith's death involved multiple projectiles and Tasers.
Krista Kach's death was linked to a bean-bag round striking her heart.
Families are calling for reforms to prevent future fatalities.