Following an investigation and coronial inquest, a man will face court charged with manslaughter following the 2021 death of a man near Kyogle.
About 12.40am on Sunday 17 October 2021, emergency services attended a property on Gonpa Road, Collins Creek, following reports a man had collapsed. NSW Ambulance paramedics assisted the 47-year-old man at the scene; however, he could not be revived.
Officers attached to Richmond Police District attended and commenced inquiries into the man’s death.
Subsequent inquiries revealed that a ceremonial ritual had been held at the property allegedly involving natural prohibited substances, known as kambo and ayahuasca.
Arrest
Following an extensive investigation by detectives, a 52-year-old man was arrested in Coorabell about 10am on Tuesday 3 March 2026. He was taken to Byron Bay Police Station where he was charged with manslaughter.
Police will allege in court that the man supplied the 47-year-old man with ayahuasca while hosting a retreat at the property and delayed seeking medical treatment when the man’s health deteriorated.
The 52-year-old man was granted conditional bail to appear before Lismore Local Court on Monday 30 March 2026.
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