DETAILS OF DEATH

On 16 June 2025, Constable Keith Anthony Smith and Sergeant Gavin Rigby from Ulverstone Police Station attended 270 Allison Road, North Motton, in connection with a property repossession. They were accompanied in a support capacity by three plain clothes members from Tasmania Police Special Operations Group (SOG) (not deployed in a tactical role). Also, present were two civilians: a representative from the Commonwealth Bank of Australia and a local locksmith.

Upon arrival, the SOG members and the civilians remained at the base of the driveway, while Constable Smith and Sergeant Rigby proceeded towards the residence. As they approached, the accused, who had been concealed near a parked vehicle, confronted the officers while armed.

The situation escalated rapidly. The accused directed the firearm towards Sergeant Rigby before turning his attention to Constable Smith, who was struck and fatally wounded. The accused subsequently re-engaged, at which point the nearby SOG members responded from a distance of approximately 50 metres. The offender sustained a hand injury, ceased resistance, and was taken into custody where he received immediate medical assistance.

Tragically, Constable Smith did not survive his injuries. The cause of death was confirmed by the pathologist as firearm-related injuries. The accused has since been charged with murder, attempted murder, and aggravated assault.

Constable Smith’s passing in the line of duty is an immense loss to Tasmania Police, the wider policing community, and most deeply to his family and loved ones. He is remembered for his service, professionalism, and courage, which reflect the highest values of policing.

DETAILS OF DEATH

Lou Hook joined the Northern Territory Police on 9 June 1937 resigned on 13 March 1947 and rejoined on 13 October 1947. He served in Brock’s Creek Darwin and Alice Springs. Inspector Hook was awarded the Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal in March 1965 and became a Member of the Royal Victorian Order awarded following a Royal Tour in March 1963. Returning from station inspections Inspector Hook was involved in a motor vehicle accident near Pine Creek. He died of the massive injuries he received in the accident. Hook Road in Darwin is named after the Inspector.

DETAILS OF DEATH

Sergeant Troy was accidentally shot at Halls Creek by Constable Pollard whilst rushing a native camp between Wyndham and Halls Creek in WA’s north-west.

DETAILS OF DEATH

On 15 June 1862 Constable Havilland Sergeant James Condell Senior Constable Henry Moran and Constable Rafferty were travelling as protection for the Forbes Gold Escort. At a locality known as the Eugowra Rocks the coach was ambushed by a gang of bushrangers which included the notorious Frank Gardiner John Gilbert and Ben Hall. As a result of the attack Sergeant Condell and Senior Constable Moran were wounded the coach was overturned and 14000 pounds in gold and banknotes and bags of registered mail stolen. The following day the coach was righted and driven into Orange. Shortly after arriving in town a revolver under a seat in the coach discharged with the shot travelling upwards through the seat and striking Constable Havilland under the chin. The Constable was killed instantly. The constable joined the New South Wales Police Force about 1858. At the time of his death he was attached to the Forbes Gold Escort.