48-year-old Phillip Mark Walton died in custody at Casino Police Station on 19 March 2023. His death has since caused a coronial inquest to be initiated. The hearings are currently in their fourth day at the Lismore Court House. Walton’s family members remember him as a loving and gentle person. He valued his family, his friends, and his community above all, and his loss leaves an enormous hole in their lives.
Walton’s family painted a moving portrait of a man who was committed to his family. They painted the picture of him as “big and soft like a teddy bear,” with a gentle nature marked by warmth, understanding and love. The inquest provided public accountability and transparency around the circumstances of his death. In doing so, it illustrated the profound toll it took on the lives of those who loved him most.
A Loving Family Man
Family memories recounted to Walton’s family paint a picture of a man who was wholly dedicated to his loved ones. Adrian Olive and his wife, Jacinda, expressed their appreciation for Walton. They remembered him as the uncle who always made time for his nieces and nephews. For them, Walton treasured that feeling of family. He especially enjoyed cooking and eating wonderful meals with all his family, particularly his two favorites—banana bread and potato salad.
In an emotional statement, Walton’s mother, Sharon Olive, expressed the extent of the tragedy her family has experienced. Her statement, as read by her husband to the court. Inside, she wrote, “Little did any of us know that these were the last years of your life.” This feeling rings with the hurt that has echoed through the entire family after his death.
“A lifetime of memories can’t be summed up in a simple letter — the hole that has been left in our lives and heart is unexplainable.” – Adrian Olive and Jacinda Olive
The Circumstances of His Death
As the coronial inquest goes on, more has been learned about Walton’s last hours, helping all of us understand the circumstances that contributed to this tragedy. Living relatives told the world that Walton’s final days did not represent the essence of the man he was. That was something that Ian Walton, Phillip’s brother, really wanted to drive home. “As my brother’s death has rocked our family, friends, and all who come in contact with Phillip,” he said.
Phillip’s niece, Loeen Howse, a close family member, described going through what they thought was “the worst day of his life.” This was the time of day that he died. She reaffirmed that his death would not be the thing that would ultimately define who he was. Rather, it illustrated the tremendous happiness he shared with the world.
“The man described to you, he was a man having the worst day of his life, and responded as such.” – Loeen Howse
Community Impact and Remembrance
This loss has been felt far and wide, not only by Phillip’s immediate family, but the entire community who knew him. Friends and relatives have shared their memories of her and sorrow over her death. Mrs. Howse noted that Phillip had really “reached his zen in life.” This is a testament to his pursuit of joy in the face of darkness.
The family would like to express their appreciation to Sergeant Wayne Crotty for the compassion he showed Phillip. They are thankful for the advocacy he gave during Phillip’s incarceration. Beyond the symbolism in many ways, this gesture shines a light on the humanity that is often ignored in the discourse around police interactions.
As the inquest unfolds, the community is still coming together to support Walton and his family. His legacy as a caring, loving family man and friend will continue on in the hearts of all who knew him.
