Inquest: Officer's camera off during fatal shooting

A coronial inquest is examining the fatal shooting of Steve Pampalian, 41, by police on May 25, 2023, in Sydney's North Willoughby. Officers encountered Pampalian, who was experiencing a psychotic episode, in the driveway of his home. The first responding officer, Const Jason Bryan, told the inquest he did not activate his body-worn camera before firing three shots, stating there was insufficient time. The camera was off when Pampalian was shot.

Const Elizabeth Trupiano, the second officer on the scene, was not wearing a body-worn camera as a significant portion of the cameras at their station were reportedly not functioning. She testified that they responded to the incident believing it was an active break and enter, not a mental health crisis. Pampalian had recently searched terms related to "delirium" and "anxiety" and had seen a doctor for antidepressants shortly before his death.

Witnesses described Pampalian approaching the officer with two kitchen knives. Bryan recounted Pampalian running towards him, prompting him to fire his weapon. Conflicting accounts exist regarding whether Pampalian fell to his knees before continuing to advance. Neither officer performed first aid after the shooting, with Bryan citing emotional stress and Trupiano prioritizing other safety concerns.