Statement from AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw
The AFP is mourning the loss of one of our own.
It is with great sadness to confirm the death of one of our Protective Service Officers at AFP headquarters in Western Australia yesterday. At this stage there are no suspicious circumstances.
The AFP is providing pastoral support to the officer’s immediate family and our thoughts are with them during this distressing time.
The AFP will also offer care and support to all our members, not only those who have lost a colleague and a friend, but for all our members during this time of grief.
SHIELD, which is the AFP’s primary health and wellbeing support service, was activated immediately after the incident.
Two AFP WA SHIELD psychologists, a welfare officer, SHIELD’s hub manager and an exercise physiologist were activated and onsite at AFP WA office sites yesterday. A Western Australian Police Force chaplain also provided support.
Two further AFP Shield psychologists will arrive in WA tomorrow, as will an AFP chaplain to continue to provide pastoral care.
Western Australia Police Force are investigating and a report will be prepared for the coroner.
I know this type of news can affect anyone and I urge all in our blue family to look after yourself, one another, and reach out if you need support.
If you, or someone you know needs help, we encourage you to contact Lifeline (13 11 14) or Beyondblue (1300 224 636) who provide 24/7 support services.
Media enquiries:
AFP Media: (02) 5126 9297