Civil Law, Sue Police, Unlawful arrest

O’Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors Respond to State Coroner’s Findings Into the Death of Bradley Balzan

Nicole Byrne
November 14, 2025

O’Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors acknowledges the findings of the State Coroner into the death of Bradley Balzan, who was fatally shot by NSW Police.

The findings are significant. They demonstrate that Mr Balzan should never have been stopped or pursued in the manner carried out by NSW Police officers. His death was entirely preventable had police acted lawfully.

The Coroner has also issued serious and sensible recommendations to the NSW Commissioner of Police. These should be implemented without delay so that Bradley’s tragic death is not in vain.

The circumstances surrounding Mr Balzan’s death will now be further examined through civil litigation. Our firm represents Bradley’s father, Adam Balzan, in a claim for nervous shock and psychiatric injury arising from his son’s death.

Read more on the case here.

Statement from Principal Solicitor, Peter O’Brien, on Bradley Balzan case

“I can only begin to imagine how grief struck they are. This young man was a beautiful young boy who had extensive love for his family. Their grief will continue and be immeasurable.”

— Peter O’Brien, Principal Solicitor.

Background on Bradley Balzan case

Bradley Balzan was fatally shot by NSW Police during an encounter in which the Coroner has now found he should never have been stopped, detained, or pursued.
The Coroner has issued a series of recommendations to the NSW Commissioner of Police aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.
Civil proceedings will be brought on behalf of Bradley’s father, seeking damages for nervous shock and psychiatric injuries arising from his son’s death.

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