Kumanjayi White's custody death inquest to begin in 2027

A four-week coronial inquest will examine the death of 24-year-old Warlpiri man Kumanjayi White, who died in police custody at an Alice Springs supermarket. The inquest, scheduled for April 2027, will review hundreds of witness statements and expert testimony. NT Police confirmed no charges will be filed against the officers involved. The coroner, Elisabeth Armitage, has set the inquest to start on April 5, 2027. The family of Kumanjayi White expressed distress over the decision not to press charges. The inquest aims to uncover the circumstances leading to his restraint and death. The process was delayed to ensure all evidence is presented in a single session. The case has drawn attention to issues surrounding police use of force and Indigenous deaths in custody.

The inquest highlights ongoing concerns about police accountability and Indigenous rights in Australia.