Coronial
VIChome

Finding into death of David Bardho

Deceased

David Bardho

Demographics

53y, male

Date of death

2016-02-16

Finding date

2020-05-28

Cause of death

Multiple gunshot wounds to the head

AI-generated summary

David Bardho, aged 53, was shot twice in the head on 16 February 2016 by his stepson Nicholas McSweeney in what was determined to be self-defence. The death occurred following escalating family violence tensions. McSweeney had reported concerns to police on the morning of the incident that Bardho was developing terrorist plots and harbouring weapons. McSweeney was advised not to return to the property, but returned to pack belongings. When Bardho arrived home earlier than usual, a physical altercation ensued during which McSweeney believed Bardho was threatening him with a knife. The coronial review found no missed opportunities for intervention or prevention, and McSweeney was not charged. This case highlights the complexity of family violence incidents and the challenges in predicting escalation to lethal outcomes.

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

Contributing factors

  • Family violence and relationship breakdown
  • Escalating tensions between deceased and stepson over household issues
  • Presence of weapons on property
  • Earlier-than-usual arrival home by deceased
  • Physical altercation between deceased and stepson
Full text

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This page reproduces or summarises information from publicly available findings published by Australian coroners' courts. Coronial is an independent educational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of any coronial court or government body.

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