Inquest into the death of Daniel KING

33y · Male·multiple gunshot wounds to the head, trunk and limbs

Daniel King died following multiple gunshot wounds sustained during a police operation. He had acquired a firearm and attended three locations in western Sydney, discharging it before arriving at Penrith Police Station where he provoked officers to shoot him. Daniel had suffered a significant brain injury in 2010 resulting in chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), depression, personality changes, and previous suicide attempts. He was in crisis regarding complicated relationship situations and pregnancies. Police radio communications were hampered by volume and congestion. Officers who discharged firearms (Cole, Allen, Guinery, Hoffman) acted appropriately given the immediate threats they perceived. Critical learning includes: adequate mental health support and surveillance for high-risk individuals; improved police communications protocols during active incidents; and ensuring mental health professionals are informed of past suicide methodology statements.