Family of Steve Pampalian speak out after he was shot dead by police in North Willoughby

The brother of a man killed in North Willoughby while branishing two knives has described him as a shy, caring, gentle man batting some mental health issues.

The family of a “gentle giant” who was shot dead by police on Sydney’s north shore say they are struggling to understand what triggered his sudden change in mental health — and whether police took the right steps when they pulled out a gun and fired at him.

Steve Pampalian, 41, was shot dead in the driveway of his parents’ North Willoughby home

on Thursday afternoon, after he allegedly branished two knives at police on usually quiet Alexander Ave.
Two officers were confronted by Pampalian after receiving reports he had threatened neighbours before a constable discharged their firearm.

NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Leanne McCusker said early investigations indicated four shots were fired by officers at the scene.

Pampalian’s parents had left the house an hour prior to go shopping and rushed home after receiving calls worried from family and neighbours about a shooting.

An emotional Eddie Pampalian makes a statement following his brother’s death. Picture: Christian Anstey

Steve Pampalian was shot dead by police on Alexander Ave in North Willoughby on Thursday.

On Friday, Steve’s heartbroken brother Eddie said his family were struggling to understand what happened, saying his brother was usually a kind, caring and gentle man.

“My brother — everyone that knows him will confirm he was quiet and shy, but he’s an amazing and caring person,” he said.

Police on Alexander Ave in North Willoughby on Thursday. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Swift

“We’re still trying to piece together and understand what happened yesterday — the full behaviour that we’re being told that was exhibited is just completely out of character.

“It’s just not the person we know … we’re still struggling to comprehend and understand it ourselves.”

Eddie revealed police had told his family there was no bodycam recording of the incident — prompting him to question why it was not activated and if police could have approached the situation differently.

“I feel there’s many other ways they (the police) could have handled this,” he said.

“I understand the police are doing their job and I understand the need to protect themselves … The first thing that came to my mind is why don’t you grab (the taser).”

Steve Pampalian (left) with his father, brother Eddie and nieces.

The day prior, Assistant Commissioner McCusker confirmed taser was an option available to the responding police.

“In terms of the tactical option that was used, that will be subject to the investigation by the critical investigation team,” she said.

When questioned whether body cam had captured the incident, a NSW Police spokesman said it would be “inappropriate to comment” as the investigation was active.

Eddie, who rushed to be with his parents following the tragedy, said his devastated family had asked detectives to look into what medications his brother may have been taking, noting he battled with, and was treated for anxiety and depression.

He made it clear however that his brother did not have a history of violent and psychotic episodes and did not have a criminal record.

“He was gentle and non-confrontational,” Eddie said. “He’s a big fella and can look intimidating but he wasn’t.”

Steve’s mental health will form part of the critical incident investigation surrounding his death.

The incident follows a difficult week for NSW Police bosses who have been dealing with the fallout of the tasering and subsequent death of 95-year-old Cooma dementia patient Clare Nowland.

Mrs Nowland was allegedly tasered by police responding to claims she was holding a steak knife inside her aged care facility.

One of the police officers involved, Senior Constable Kristian White, has been charged over the incident following a critical investigation by the NSW Police Homicide Squad.