Constables Matthew Arnold and Rachel McCrow were ambushed and shot dead as they arrived at a remote property in Wieambilla, west of Brisbane. The shooters, Nathaniel and Gareth Train, were armed with rifles and took the officers’ guns after the attack. Constable Randall Kirk, who survived the incident, managed to call for help and escape in his vehicle, dodging bullets as he fled the scene. Another officer, Constable Keely Brough, was able to hide in nearby grass until backup arrived.
The Trains, who held extremist religious views, were lying in wait for the officers and fatally shot Arnold and McCrow as they approached the property. The attackers refused to negotiate with police and engaged in a firefight before being shot dead by specialist officers six hours later. Police crime scene photos revealed various equipment found at the property, including the officers’ guns, a military ghillie suit, a bow and arrows, and other gear commonly used by snipers.
Neighbour Alan Dare, who went to the property after seeing smoke, was also shot dead by the Trains when he approached the burning police vehicle. Dare’s wife, Kerry, gave evidence at the inquest, which shed light on the events leading up to the officers’ deaths. The video captured by Dare on his mobile phone showed his final moments as he approached the fire and was fatally shot by one of the attackers.
Constable Kirk, who was shot in the abdomen and hip, provided testimony at the inquest about his harrowing experience during the ambush. He described how he attempted to retreat and escape as the shooters approached him with rifles. Kirk’s quick thinking and bravery in the face of danger helped him survive the attack and seek help for his fallen colleagues. The inquest also revealed that Nathaniel Train had observed the officers through the scope of his rifle before fatally shooting Constable Arnold.
The tragic deaths of Constables Arnold and McCrow serve as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty. The inquest highlighted the extreme measures taken by the attackers, who were willing to engage in a deadly confrontation with police. The bravery and resilience shown by the surviving officers in the face of such violence is a testament to their commitment to protecting the community. The findings of the inquest will hopefully provide closure for the families of the fallen officers and shed light on ways to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
