UPDATE: An inquest has just begun into the tragic death of Evander Tuala, a 23-year-old man fatally injured during a brawl in Sydney’s Darlinghurst district on April 9, 2022. The proceedings aim to uncover the circumstances surrounding his death, which has left his family seeking closure and justice.
Witnesses report that Mr. Tuala was struck and knocked unconscious before sustaining severe head injuries from a fall on Oxford Street. A friend, Michael Mallouhi, recounted seeing Mr. Tuala being kicked while on the ground, heightening the urgency for an answer as police have yet to identify his killer.
Despite five individuals being convicted for their roles in the chaotic affray, no one has been charged with murder, leaving the community in shock and Mr. Tuala’s family devastated. The inquest, led by NSW Deputy State Coroner Carmel Forbes, is a crucial fact-finding mission that could lead to further legal action, as Chris McGorey, counsel assisting the coroner, indicated it may refer findings to the Director of Public Prosecutions.
The incident unfolded just after 12:30 AM when two groups clashed outside the Oxford Hotel. Footage captured moments of chaos as Mr. Tuala collapsed after being struck. “His loss is a matter of significant concern for the community,” McGorey stated, emphasizing the impact of his death.
Family members filled the courtroom, visibly emotional as they listened to the details of the night that changed their lives forever. Among those present was Keidan Donovan-Phillips, one of the individuals charged with affray, who was reportedly near Mr. Tuala during the altercation.
A CT scan performed shortly after Mr. Tuala arrived at St Vincent’s Hospital revealed serious brain injuries, ultimately leading to him being declared brain dead by April 11, 2022. The inquest will focus on identifying the individual responsible for rendering him unconscious, a pressing concern that remains unanswered.
As the inquest continues over the next five days, the community watches closely, hoping for justice and clarity in a case that has left many heartbroken. Two men previously convicted for their involvement in the affray have been subpoenaed to testify, potentially shedding more light on the events leading to this tragic loss of life.
Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds. The quest for truth and justice for Evander Tuala is just beginning, and the community is rallying for answers.
