The families of fallen officers Rachel McCrow and Matthew Arnold are taking legal steps against the police forces of New South Wales and Queensland, alleging that negligence played a role in the tragic deaths of the officers.

Officers McCrow, aged 29, and Arnold, 26, were tragically killed in an ambush by three conspiracy theorists in Wieambilla in 2022.

A recent inquest revealed that Gareth, Nathaniel, and Stacey Train were suffering from a “shared delusional disorder,” describing them as “psychotically unwell,” though it stopped short of labeling them as terrorists.

The inquiry resulted in 10 recommendations, including an assessment of the State Intelligence Group, enhancement of QPS drone operations in isolated areas, and improved information sharing among police agencies.

The bereaved families argue that the negligence of the NSW Police Force and Queensland Police Service resulted in the officers being placed in a deadly situation with no chance of survival.

“They believe that crucial evidence was disregarded and not thoroughly evaluated,” stated the families’ legal representative.

“Our clients are confident that, but for the alleged negligence of the NSW Police Force and the Queensland Police Service, Constable Rachel McCrow and Constable Matthew Arnold would still be alive.”

They also want to ensure that the families of other police officers “never have to suffer the kind of pain and loss that they now endure”.

Both families have lodged separate claims in the Supreme Court in Brisbane.