The inquest found Rolfe's decisions during the arrest led to dangerous confrontations, culminating in Walker’s tragic death after being shot three times. Judge Armitage's findings include demands for robust anti-racism strategies and a call for better protocols during policing engagements within Indigenous communities. The report leaves a lasting impact as it resonates with ongoing protests against Indigenous deaths in custody and advocates for urgent reform in police practices.
### Inquest Reveals Systemic Racism in Police Shooting of Indigenous Teen
### Inquest Reveals Systemic Racism in Police Shooting of Indigenous Teen
The tragic case of Kumanjayi Walker shines a light on the racism within Australia’s police force, as a recent inquest reveals startling findings.
A coroner's inquest has condemned the actions of former police officer Zachary Rolfe, who shot and killed Indigenous teenager Kumanjayi Walker in 2019, declaring that he was "racist" and drawn to excitement in policing. Judge Elisabeth Armitage emphasized that Walker's death was "avoidable" and linked to systemic racism within the Northern Territory police. The inquest demonstrated that the culture at the local police station normalized racism and misconduct.
