Inquest into the Suspected Death of Nicholas Lutci PAVLIDIS

Male·unascertained

Nicholas Pavlidis disappeared in October 2015 after last being seen alive on 14 October 2015. His abandoned vehicle was reported to police on 24 October 2015 in Yanchep bushland, but initial police response treated it as a routine abandoned vehicle matter and referred it to local government authorities rather than investigating welfare concerns. Mr Pavlidis was reported missing on 8 November 2015 after his friend discovered the abandoned car. The coroner found that earlier police attendance to inspect the vehicle, particularly given reported damage and inability to contact the owner, may have identified his disappearance sooner. Mr Pavlidis had documented mental health deterioration including paranoia, anxiety, and isolation; he had ceased taking prescribed medications and withdrawn from counselling. Skeletal remains confirmed as Mr Pavlidis were discovered in October 2024 in Yanchep National Park. The coroner recommended that WA Police amend policy to require consideration of welfare concerns when responding to abandoned vehicle reports, not just criminal matters.