Deceased
Scott Andrew BLANCHARD
Demographics
45y, male
Coroner
Deputy State Coroner Vicker
Date of death
2015-07-24
Finding date
2018-09-20
Cause of death
Gunshot injury to the chest (self-inflicted)
AI-generated summary
Scott Andrew Blanchard, a 45-year-old Detective Sergeant with the Western Australian Police Gang Crime Squad, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound while on duty near Kalgoorlie. In June 2015, following a trip to Thailand, he developed anxiety and health concerns related to an undiagnosed medical condition despite negative investigations. He declined medication and became preoccupied with the possibility of serious illness. In the weeks prior to his death, he appeared withdrawn but not obviously suicidal to colleagues or family. He shot himself with his service firearm at approximately 4:45 PM on 24 July 2015. The coroner found he had formed suicidal intent by June 2015 and chose the time and location deliberately to shield his family. The case highlights the importance of ensuring police families are aware of confidential mental health services, and reducing stigma associated with psychological support access in law enforcement.
AI-generated summary and tagging — may contain inaccuracies; refer to original finding for legal purposes. Report an inaccuracy.
Specialties
Error types
Clinical conditions
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