Inquest into the disappearance and suspected death of Gavin Cheng

29y · Male·Not determined; likely multiple injuries from fall from coastal cliff or drowning

This inquest concerns the disappearance and suspected death of Gavin Cheng, a 29-year-old man last seen on 29 October 2023 in North Bondi, NSW. Gavin had a documented history of schizophrenia diagnosed in 2015, with periods of non-compliance with antipsychotic medication and progressive social withdrawal. Prior to disappearance, he exhibited concerning behaviours including purchasing a large cargo bag and making a pharmacy visit. His phone last pinged in the Dover Heights area. Despite extensive police searches including air and water patrols, and comprehensive review of CCTV footage, no body was recovered. The coroner found on balance of probabilities that Gavin died by intentional self-harm, likely from jumping from a coastal cliff between North Bondi and Dover Heights. The clinical lesson concerns recognition of deteriorating mental health in young adults with psychotic disorders, particularly when medication compliance is uncertain and social engagement is minimal.