Inquest into the death of Narayan Rodwell
Deceased
Narayan Rodwell
Demographics
32y, male
Date of death
2022-09-29
Finding date
2026-06-30
Cause of death
Multiple injuries from collision with vehicles whilst crossing the M1 Highway
AI-generated summary
Narayan Rodwell, age 32, died on 29 September 2022 following a police pursuit on the M1 Highway near Byron Bay. After reports of erratic driving in Byron Bay—attributed to methamphetamine use (1 mg/L blood level) and possible manic symptoms—NSW Police initiated a pursuit. During a 26-minute pursuit, Narayan drove dangerously in built-up areas but relatively normally on the highway. Police deployed a tyre deflation device to prevent his return to populated areas. As his tyres deflated, Narayan exited the vehicle and was struck by two southbound cars while crossing the highway. The coroner found the pursuit initiation, continuation, and TDD deployment were all reasonable and appropriate based on the information available at the time. No adverse findings were made against police. No recommendations were made.
AI-generated summary and tagging — may contain inaccuracies; refer to original finding for legal purposes.
Drugs involved
Contributing factors
- Acute methamphetamine intoxication
- Police pursuit
- Deployment of tyre deflation device
- Erratic driving behaviour prior to pursuit
- Failure to stop when police attempted to intercept vehicle
- Mental health difficulties (impact on driving unclear)
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