The brother of a man shot and killed by police says he does not blame officers for the tragic events that unfolded over Monday’s six-hour Brisbane siege.
Peter Pilkington, 48, was on Tuesday identified as the gunman shot by police after a dramatic stand-off that began at a Stretton disability support centre on Monday afternoon.
Five bystanders barricaded themselves in a separate room after Pilkington – allegedly armed with a gun and a knife – stormed into the Unique Oz Care office at about 1pm.
Pilkington is said to have raised a gun at police after several tense hours, forcing officers to shoot him in the chest. He died soon after.
Mr Pilkington’s brother Shannon told Nine News the situation was tragic for all involved.
“My heart goes out to everyone in this situation,” Shannon said.
“Five people were terrified. The police officer has to live for the rest of his life with what he‘s done.”
Details of Peter Pilkington’s troubled life have since emerged in the press, including his struggles with mental health and drug addiction.
Shannon told Nine News that Peter’s marriage had recently broken down and his social media posts in recent years had drawn the attention of Australian Federal Police.
Authorities said Monday’s siege was not terrorism-related.
“I’m not making excuses, he’s done some bad things,” Shannon said of his brother.
“This is not the brother I know. I’ll remember my brother for the good person that he used to be.”
Peter Pilkington was said to be ‘living rough’ at the time of the siege.
His nephew, Monty Pilkington told The Courier Mail the ordeal had been difficult news to process.
“I personally don’t know too much but from what I understand he was suffering from bipolar, depression and schizophrenia and still hadn’t got over the passing of his daughter 17 years ago,” Monty said.
The incident and shooting is under investigation by the Ethical Standards Command and the Queensland Crime and Corruption Commission.
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