The families of two Queensland police officers killed in a deadly ambush nearly three years ago have issued a desperate plea for procedural reforms, warning that more officers could face similar fates if changes are not implemented. The tragic incident occurred on December 12, 2022, when conspiracy theorist Gareth Train, his wife Stacey, and his brother Nathaniel ambushed and killed Constables Matthew Arnold, 26, and Rachel McCrow, 29, at their rural property in Wieambilla, Western Downs, west of Brisbane.
The officers were shot at close range within ten minutes of entering the property to conduct a welfare check on Nathaniel, who had been reported missing by New South Wales Police. Two other constables, Keely Brough and Randall Kirk, managed to escape the initial attack. Tragically, a neighbor, Alan Dare, who came to investigate smoke coming from the property, was also killed by the Trains. The perpetrators were later shot dead in a gunfight with police that night.
Calls for Urgent Reforms
Nearly three years after the incident, the families of McCrow and Arnold are voicing their concerns through a joint statement, expressing fears that more officers could be shot unless significant changes are made. The families have been enduring an excruciating wait for the inquest findings into their loved ones’ deaths, which are yet to be released by State Coroner Terry Ryan.
“What will it take for the Queensland Government, Queensland Police, and the police union to actually do something about this disturbing situation?” the families questioned in their statement. They highlighted ongoing issues such as police officers being forced to use personal mobile phones due to poor radio reception.
Communication and Equipment Failures
Last year’s inquest revealed critical communication black spots in regional areas and problems with information sharing between interstate police forces. The families are calling for improved mental health funding, enhanced officer training, and access to aerial drones to better prepare for potentially dangerous situations.
“Releasing the recommendations will only help keep police safer in the future,” the families stated. “Although we never want this to happen again, sadly a police officer could be shot tomorrow because the communications or computer program does not work effectively, or information has not been passed on effectively.”
The families have also urged for the implementation of risk mitigation and reduction strategies not just in Queensland but across Australia.
Historical Context and Recent Incidents
The Wieambilla tragedy is not an isolated incident. Since June, three police officers across Australia have been killed in the line of duty. In August, Victoria Police officers Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart were shot by Dezi Freeman while executing a search warrant. In June, Tasmania Constable Keith Smith was also shot dead.
The McCrow and Arnold families are urging Queensland authorities to not only fully implement the inquest findings but to exceed the recommendations. “The inquest only reminded us of the graphic and unimaginable nature of Rachel and Matt’s deaths and the systemic failings that allowed this tragedy to happen,” they added.
Next Steps and Government Response
A spokesperson for the Queensland Coroners Court has confirmed that the inquest findings are being prepared and will be released soon. In response to the tragedy, Queensland Police have introduced improved infrastructure, communications, and operational technologies, including a black spot register.
Meanwhile, U.S. citizen Donald Day Jr. has been charged in relation to the Wieambilla murders. He is currently awaiting trial over alleged threats made in online posts referencing the Train family.
The call for reforms by the grieving families underscores the urgent need for systemic changes to prevent future tragedies and ensure the safety of police officers across the nation. As the inquest findings are awaited, the spotlight remains on the Queensland Government and police authorities to take decisive action.
