Details of a police officer’s selfless act have emerged after she shot herself at a police station last week.
Senior Constable Kym Slade, 48, took her own life at Loganholme Police Station, south of Brisbane, on July 20.
One colleague told Daily Mail Australia that the officer had been suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression from her time in the force.
It had been reported that the loving mum died after she failed a firearms test but a police spokesman confirmed that Senior Constable Slade attended but was unable to take the test because she was unwell.
An outpouring of grief and calls for greater support for struggling officers followed the news of Senior Constable Slade’s shock death, while one man has revealed how the late officer went the “extra mile” for him.
James Vasilic met Senior Constable Slade twice in the week before she died – first on Friday, then on Tuesday – because he left his phone in an Uber, according to the Daily Mail.
But she had such an impact on him in their brief interaction he started a GoFundMe page help raise funds for her family.
“She helped me with a very insignificant issue (but important to me), but on both occasions she radiated kindness and care and she was able to resolve my matter,” Mr Vasilic wrote on the fundraiser page.
“I could tell she was someone who really cared about people and helping them and going the extra mile. The next day she lost her life.
“From all accounts, Kym was a generous, kind, and loving mother and public service member. “If I could feel it for only encountering her twice I can’t imagine what a big loss this will leave in the hearts of her family, friends, and work colleagues.”
Mr Vasilic said he was starting the fundraiser “because genuine people like Kym and everyone who loved her should never be taken for granted or forgotten”.
Officers from across the country have shared their support for Senior Constable Slade, calling for more help for struggling officers.
On Thursday, July 20 police confirmed a female senior constable had died “after a firearm was discharged” at the Loganholme Police Station after midday on Thursday, July 20.
In a statement issued shortly after the incident, police said family and friends were being provided support.
“Ethical Standards Command is investigating the incident, with oversight by the Crime and Corruption Commissioner,” the statement read.
The next day, Queensland Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll confirmed in an email to the force’s staff that the officer who died was Senior Constable Slade.
“Just after midday today, Senior Constable Slade died following the discharge of a police issued firearm at Loganholme Police Station,” Ms Carroll wrote to staff on Thursday evening, according to The Courier Mail.
“I know you will all join me by keeping Kym’s family, friends and colleagues in your thoughts at this extremely difficult time.”
Ms Carroll thanked the police and first responders who assisted at the scene and urged staff to “look out for each other” in the days after the incident.
“There are many support options available for our members and if you need help, please speak to a senior psychologist, social worker, police chaplain or a PSO (Peer Support Officer),” she continued.
“To all our members, I mourn with you tonight.
“With Honour She Served.”
If you or someone you know needs assistance:
Lifeline on 13 11 14 or www.lifeline.org.au
Beyond Blue 1300 224 636 or at www.beyondblue.org.au