New documentary dissects an Australian tragedy from all sides

The documentary 2.6 Seconds: Death in the Outback explores the tragic death of 19-year-old Warlpiri man Kumanjayi Walker in the Australian outback. Walker was shot three times by Northern Territory police officer Zachary Rolfe in 2019. The documentary was produced by Blackfella Films and consists of four parts that chronicle the events leading up to and following Walker's death.

Walker was a young, energetic man with cognitive and developmental difficulties. He had a history of run-ins with the justice system. Rolfe, described as a proactive officer who pursued difficult arrests, had a reputation for risk-taking. The documentary includes body cam footage from the days leading to Walker's death and the night of the shooting.

Walker's family members, police officials, legal professionals, journalists, and community elders share their reflections throughout the series. The documentary aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the tragedy, going beyond the perspective of Walker's family. It highlights the racism embedded within the Northern Territory police force and the immense fallout for everyone involved.

The documentary begins by establishing the context of Yuendumu, a remote community north-west of Alice Springs. Walker is described as a funny, energetic young man with a history of run-ins with the law. The series also delves into the life of Rolfe, revealing his motivations for becoming a police officer and his service in Afghanistan.

Walker's sister Leanne Oldfield provides powerful testimony, expressing the importance of looking at the incident, even if it is uncomfortable. The body cam footage shows Walker wailing for his mother, emphasizing the emotional impact of the shooting. The frenzied aftermath reveals the police station locking Walker in while preventing the community from learning about his condition.

The documentary also addresses the delayed communication of Walker's death to the community and the role of media in disseminating information. It highlights the fault lines in Australian society, the gaps in understanding, and the need for reconciliation. The series includes an interview with former police officer Zachary Rolfe, who declines to answer questions due to fear of exposing himself to penalty.