December 15, 2022
Condolence books for the families of murdered police officers Constable Matthew Arnold and Constable Rachel McCrow have been set up at local police stations.
South Burnett police were among the teams of officers who responded after Monday’s traumatic incident at Wieambilla, south-west of Chinchilla.
Condolence books can be signed during business hours at Kingaroy, Nanango and Murgon police stations.
“We will be forwarding these books to their respective families near when the funerals take place, as a mark of respect and support to them in this difficult time,” Murgon officer-in-charge Senior Sergeant Brett Everest said.
“I thank everyone for their support for the police community during this difficult time.”
Mayor Brett Otto said he had contacted District Inspector Scott Stahlhut and Western Downs mayor Paul McVeigh to pass on the South Burnett region’s heartfelt condolences.
“This will deeply affect every person in the police family, including those who serve across the South Burnett and so, as a community, now more than ever we need to be thinking of them, letting them know that we are standing beside them and showing our gratitude for putting themselves at risk in keeping us safe,” Mayor Otto said.
Constables Arnold and McCrow, from Tara police station, were shot dead when they made a “routine” missing persons inquiry at a property in Wains Road at Wieambilla on Monday afternoon.
Two Chinchilla police officers, Constable Randall Kirk and Constable Keeley Brough, managed to escape, although Constable Kirk was wounded.
A neighbour, Alan Dare, was shot dead when he came to investigate a fire, apparently set to flush out Constable Brough.
The three shooters have been identified as former teachers Nathaniel and Stacey Train and Nathaniel’s brother Gareth.
Stacey was briefly principal at Proston P-10 State School.
UPDATE: A short service will be held at the Kingaroy Police Station flagpole at 10:00am on Monday (December 19) followed by a minute’s silence.
