Tragedy for WA Police Force as homicide squad detective takes own life at police facility in Perth

A homicide squad detective has taken his own life at a WA Police facility in Perth overnight. It is understood the male officer fatally self-injured in the early hours of Monday morning. In a statement, police said the death was being considered non-suspicious. Premier Roger Cook extended his condolences to the detective’s family and colleagues. Mr Cook said he hadn’t been fully briefed on the tragedy, but indicated that he understood the incident was not related to the officer’s work circumstances. The West Australian understands the officer had been stopped at Perth International Airport on Saturday and police are investigating if this was somehow connected to the incident. “This is obviously a very tragic set of circumstances, and obviously it’s a very, very, very sad case,” Mr Cook told reporters. “I understand that there’s information which is moving through the community in relation to his personal circumstances, but I won’t make further comment.” Asked if police were offered enough mental health support, Mr Cook said the psychological wellbeing of frontline officers and first responders was a high priority and “of particular focus” for his Government. “These people are always looking going into difficult circumstances, dangerous circumstances, personally confronting circumstances,” the Premier said. “My understanding is that this particular circumstance doesn’t necessarily relate to the officer’s work situation. “But obviously we need to be cognisant of all these things, and the police commissioner will provide further commentary in relation to this matter following an initial investigation.” Liberal leader Libby Mettam extended her sympathies to the family, but refused to be drawn into the circumstances around the incident. Commissioner Col Blanch extended his condolences to the officer’s family, his colleagues and everyone who knew him. “Information regarding this officer’s death has been shared with his colleagues, and health and welfare support has been offered to all police officers and staff who may be impacted by this tragedy,” Mr Blanch said. WA Police Union president Paul Gale said the whole Force and membership were distraught by the loss. “All of our members both here and across Australia will be effected by this,” Mr Gale said. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the man’s death and compiling a report for the coroner. Lifeline 13 11 14