Deceased
Benjamin Anthony Freear
Demographics
40y, male
Coroner
Ryan
Date of death
2019-12-08
Finding date
2026-04-24
Cause of death
Gunshot wound to neck
AI-generated summary
Benjamin Freear, aged 40, died from a gunshot wound to the neck sustained during a police siege on 8 December 2019 in rural Queensland. He had been diagnosed with ADHD in April 2018 and prescribed dexamphetamine by psychiatrist Dr F., continuing under GP Dr S.'s care. His mother expressed concerns about medication-related behavioural changes in March 2019, prompting referral to a specialist who was unavailable. Dr S. attempted urgent specialist referrals but Ben declined appointments due to financial constraints and other barriers. His final ADHD assessment in December 2019 showed stability. On 7 December 2019, while intoxicated and after recent cannabis use, he assaulted his partner, threatened neighbours, and discharged firearms. SERT responded the following morning. He drove his vehicle toward armed police, fired a rifle, and was fatally shot when continuing to pose an imminent lethal threat. Toxicology showed therapeutic levels of amphetamine and benzodiazepines. Expert evidence confirmed appropriate ADHD diagnosis and mental health treatment by both psychiatrist and GP, with prescribing consistent with best practice. The Coroner made no recommendations.
AI-generated summary and tagging — may contain inaccuracies; refer to original finding for legal purposes. Report an inaccuracy.
Specialties
Error types
Drugs involved
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