Family ‘failed’ after disabled man’s death at Perth train station

Police have revealed new information about a man living with a disability who died after being detained by transit officers after an “altercation”.

The family of man who died while being detained during a mental health episode at a train station believe his death could have been prevented.

Josh was alone on Friday when he was stopped by security at Perth’s underground train station before being handcuffed after an altercation.

The 24-year-old allegedly became aggressive with security, though it remains unclear why Josh – who lived with Sotos syndrome – was detained by guards.

Transit security who knew Josh and referred to him as JJ asked him to “come up for fresh air” before he was arrested.

Police have confirmed Josh stopped breathing after being taken into custody about 8.40am.

Josh, 24, was alone on Friday when he was stopped by security at Perth’s underground train station before, only moments later, being handcuffed after an altercation. Picture: Supplied

Paramedics were called to the station to find Josh unresponsive and performed CPR on the man before he was taken to the Royal Perth Hospital where he died.

John had lived with Sotos Syndrome for much of his life. The genetic condition causes physical overgrowth during childhood.

Police says detectives from the Major Crime Division are assisting with the report for the coroner.

“While the cause of death remains uncertain at this time, at this stage in the investigation there is no indication of any criminal conduct,” a WA Police spokesperson said.

His mother was told the incident, from Josh being handcuffed to the medical episode, had transpired in just 60 seconds.

Josh’s family told 7 News the 24-year-old should not have been alone, and claimed their plea for independent living support was rejected.

Paramedics were called to Perth Underground Train Station to find Josh unresponsive. Picture: Google Maps

“The NDIS came back and said look we’re not going to give you this funding,” disability advocate Samantha Connor said.

“We’ll give you just a few hours extra so 4-6 hours a day of support which wasn’t enough.

“I really feel like the system has failed the family and Josh at every level (...) Really we need to have answers right now about how Josh was failed and who Josh was failed by.”

The Public Transport Authority is co-operating with the police investigation.

“Police are working closely with the PTA which has provided full access to their CCTV,” WA Police said.

Originally published as Family ‘failed’ after disabled man’s death at Perth train station