Inquest into the Death of David GRAY

58y · Male·Gunshot injury to the abdomen

David Gray, 58, deliberately induced police to shoot him as a means of suicide following undisclosed mental health deterioration. On 22 September 2023, he called police anonymously reporting an armed person, then presented in a Kalgoorlie laneway with a replica firearm and petrol canister. When police arrived, he ran towards them while pointing the weapon. Two officers discharged their firearms, with the second shot proving fatal. Post-mortem examination revealed the gun was a replica and David had been doused with petrol, suggesting he had contemplated alternative suicide methods including self-immolation. The coroner found the police shooting to be lawful self-defence and determined the three officers acted appropriately given the perceived threat. David had been stressed by job loss, financial concerns, and health anxiety about possible prostate cancer. The coroner made no adverse findings regarding police conduct but emphasized the importance of checking in with family and friends regarding mental health.