A Queensland coroner has released findings regarding the 2021 death in custody of Indigenous man Steven Nixon-McKellar, concluding that his death was not directly caused by the use of a lateral vascular neck restraint (LVNR) during his arrest. Instead, the coroner determined that the cause of death was 'multi-factorial,' which implies that several factors contributed to the tragic incident rather than a singular police action.

The inquest, which spanned four days in Toowoomba, was marked by significant advocacy and public demonstrations. Family and friends of Mr. Nixon-McKellar held a large rally outside the courthouse, voicing their demand for justice and accountability regarding police practices. Despite the findings indicating that the LVNR was not the direct cause of death, the use of such contentious tactics by law enforcement has been under scrutiny, especially in contexts involving Indigenous Australians.

The coroner's decision highlights ongoing concerns over police methods and their impact on Indigenous communities in Australia. The tragic case of Mr. Nixon-McKellar, whose name and image were shared with his family's consent, has reignited discussions about policing, systemic racism, and the need for reform in law enforcement practices, particularly in the treatment of Indigenous individuals. As the public continues to rally for change, the implications of the inquest findings are likely to resonate within broader social justice movements across the nation.