Story perspectives

Police Shooting of Steve Pampalian Sparks Mental Health Debate

3/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

On May 25, 2023, police shot Steve Pampalian during a psychotic episode in Sydney, according to a coronial inquest.
Const Jason Bryan said he lacked time to activate his body-worn camera.
Witnesses described conflicting observations of Pampalian's actions before the shooting.
Pampalian's brother described him as a gentle soul with anxiety issues, and the inquest continues to examine police responses to mental health crises after several 2023 incidents.

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Story summary

On May 25, 2023, police shot Steve Pampalian during a psychotic episode in Sydney, according to a coronial inquest.
Const Jason Bryan said he lacked time to activate his body-worn camera.
Witnesses described conflicting observations of Pampalian's actions before the shooting.
Pampalian's brother described him as a gentle soul with anxiety issues, and the inquest continues to examine police responses to mental health crises after several 2023 incidents.