Tough week

Multiple tragic deaths have rocked NQ in the past seven days. How are you holding up?

The past week was a tough one for Townsville, and the Bulletin took no joy in bringing you the tragic news of multiple deaths. That included the heartbreaking news of an Ayr toddler passing away in hospital after being hit by a car, the police shooting of a veteran with mental health issues, and the body of an 18-year-old being found on Sunday morning.

All of which took place just a short time after North Queensland officially started its 2023 road toll.

To all of the families involved — our deepest condolences for your losses. Grief is complex and layered, and we hope you are leaning on the people around you to navigate what are difficult moments.

In the case of Steven Angus, the veteran killed by police, multiple investigations are already underway into the officers’ use of force and the decision to fire their weapons. Police allege he ran at them with knives before they opened fire.

What police union chief Ian Leavers has asked is why the 52year-old was released from the hospital prior to the shooting, given Mr Angus had been involved in a siege negotiation with police just the night before.

The hospital has cited patient confidentiality when asked about Mr Angus’ release.

Anyone who has experienced a friend or family member going through a severe mental health crisis, at risk or self-harm, who has been able to check themselves out of hospital, understands the frustration when sick people refuse the treatment they need.

It’s not always a straightforward process, even when people are suicidal.

The Bulletin hopes the investigation into the shooting provides some clarity to those who knew Mr Angus.

We encourage all of our readers to reach out to friends and family — especially those in Australia’s armed forces — and check in on their welfare.

And for any of our readers struggling themselves, it’s always better to talk things through rather than hold onto them tightly by yourself.

It has been a tough week in Townsville, and we need to be there for each other.