South Australia Police are investigating the death of a 23-year-old Aboriginal man who died during an arrest in Adelaide’s CBD, prompting a coronial investigation and further reviews into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Police said officers were called to West Terrace, Adelaide, shortly after 4:15pm on Thursday, July 23, following reports of a man allegedly behaving in a disorderly manner and damaging vehicles. When police attempted to arrest the man, a struggle occurred and he became unresponsive shortly afterwards. Despite efforts from police and paramedics, including CPR, the man could not be revived and was declared deceased at the scene.
The man was from the APY Lands in remote northern South Australia. His death is being treated as a death in custody, triggering several investigations into the circumstances leading up to his death. A report will be prepared for the State Coroner, while South Australia Police has also announced a Police Commissioner’s Inquiry into the incident.
According to police, officers responding to the incident encountered a situation involving alleged aggressive behaviour. Police said the man was carrying a wooden stick and that a struggle took place while officers attempted to restrain him. Police have stated that no firearms, Tasers or other weapons were used during the arrest.
The incident has raised community concerns and renewed discussions about Aboriginal deaths in custody, police procedures and the need for transparency during investigations involving First Nations people. Aboriginal organisations and community representatives are expected to closely follow the coronial process and review findings.
A coronial investigation will examine the events leading up to the man’s death, including police interactions, the type of restraint used, medical factors and whether any procedures could be improved to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Police have said the incident was captured on body-worn cameras, which will form part of the investigation process. Witnesses and members of the public who may have footage or information about what happened before the arrest have been encouraged to contact investigators.
Deaths involving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in custody remain a significant national issue, with coroners regularly examining whether changes to policing, healthcare access, detention practices and support services are needed. Advocacy groups have previously called for stronger oversight and independent investigations into custody-related deaths.
The South Australian Government and police have expressed condolences to the man’s family and community. Authorities have said the investigation process will be conducted thoroughly and that findings from the Coroner and internal reviews will help determine whether any changes are required.
The case remains under active investigation, and no conclusions have been reached about the cause of death or whether any individual actions contributed to the outcome. The coronial process will determine the circumstances surrounding the death and may provide recommendations aimed at improving safety and accountability.
