Coronial
NTcommunity

Inquest into the death of Randil Nuparunya

Deceased

Randil Nuparunya

Demographics

29y, male

Date of death

2002-02-28

Finding date

2003-06-20

Cause of death

Drowning

AI-generated summary

A 29-year-old Aboriginal man died by drowning after police pursued him following an assault at a beach. Officers responded to an assault complaint and chased the deceased onto the beach when he fled. When he entered the water, police remained at the shore and did not pursue him further. The deceased appeared capable in the water and showed no signs of distress. He had an extremely high blood alcohol level (0.381%) which was not apparent from his athletic movements. A marine unit was requested but not deployed. The coroner found the officers' actions appropriate and reasonable, including their decision not to enter the water or deploy marine resources. No criticisms or preventability issues were identified by the coroner. The investigation followed proper protocols for deaths in custody.

AI-generated summary and tagging — may contain inaccuracies; refer to original finding for legal purposes.

Drugs involved

Contributing factors

  • Very high blood alcohol content (0.381%)
  • Intoxication not apparent from physical appearance and movement
  • Night-time water conditions
  • Uncooperative behaviour and evasion
  • Deceased fleeing from police into water
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