NSW Police Shootings Raise Concerns Over Mental Health Response

On May 25, 2023, Steve Pampalian, a 41-year-old man, was shot dead by a New South Wales (NSW) police officer in North Willoughby, Sydney, after he approached the officer with two knives. The incident occurred following a psychotic episode experienced by Pampalian, who was not known to police, contrary to initial claims made by Assistant Commissioner Leanne McCusker. This assertion was later corrected during an inquest, where Detective Inspector Trent Power confirmed Pampalian had no criminal history. The deputy state coroner, Kasey Pearce, described the initial statement as “very unfortunate.”

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Pampalian's family had requested a retraction of the police's claim, emphasizing that it misrepresented him as a criminal. The inquest revealed that Pampalian had been experiencing a psychotic episode, which had gone unnoticed by his family and medical professionals. His brother, Eddie Pampalian, described him as a “gentle giant” who struggled with anxiety but had never exhibited violent behavior prior to the incident.

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The inquest highlighted the circumstances leading to the police's response. Multiple neighbors had reported Pampalian's erratic behavior, mistaking the situation for a potential break-in rather than a mental health crisis. The first responding officer, Constable Jason Bryan, shot Pampalian three times when he ran towards him with knives, stating he did not have time to activate his body-worn camera before the shooting. Following the incident, the NSW Police have implemented changes, including automatic activation of body cameras when firearms are drawn and increased mental health training for officers.

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Pampalian's death is part of a troubling trend, as he was one of four vulnerable individuals who died in separate police interactions in 2023. The scrutiny over police handling of mental health crises has intensified, prompting discussions about the adequacy of training and resources available to officers.

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In a separate incident on March 3, 2026, police shot a man in Potts Point after he allegedly attacked two women. The man died shortly after being shot, raising further questions about police engagement in violent situations. Assistant Commissioner Peter McKenna expressed concern for the officers involved, stating they were traumatized by the incident, which he described as tragic.

The Sydney Morning Herald

The NSW Police have acknowledged the need for improved protocols in handling mental health incidents. Det Supt Kirsty Hales noted that changes to training and operational procedures were a direct response to critical incidents involving mental health. The Pampalian family’s statement during the inquest emphasized the broader impact of such tragedies, stating, “Many people have been affected by this tragedy, not just our family.”

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• “Yes, he is known to police,” — Leanne McCusker, Assistant Commissioner, NSW Police

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• “That’s very unfortunate,” — Kasey Pearce, Deputy State Coroner

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• “Steve was loved deeply by his family and friends.” — Family Statement

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The deaths of Steve Pampalian and others in similar circumstances have sparked a critical examination of police practices in NSW, particularly regarding mental health crises. The ongoing inquests and investigations aim to address these issues and improve the safety and effectiveness of police responses in the future.

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