A man who was shot by police in Cooee in 2016 told his former partner he wanted to commit suicide, an inquest has heard.
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The coronial inquiry into the fatal shooting of Robert Edward McInerney, 48, began on Monday at Devonport Magistrates Court before Coroner Olivia McTaggart.
In an opening statement, counsel assisting the coroner John Ransom said the cause of death and the intentions of the police officers would not be in dispute during the inquest.
Mr Ransom told the court that on May 24, 2016 Mr McInerney sent his ex-partner, Ann Gallagher, a number of messages saying that he wanted to commit suicide.
At 7.45pm, he called triple zero and told the operator he was mentally unstable, in pain and was armed with knives.
Mr McInerney was armed with several knives when police officers arrived on the scene.
Mr Ransom said the man was behind the property when he charged at police officers who were trying to negotiate with him.
Police used capsicum spray on the man but it appeared to have no effect.
Senior Constable William Flynn shot Mr McInerney in the abdomen and thigh. He was taken to hospital but later died of his injuries.
Mr McInerney's psychiatrist, Dr Christopher Robinson, told the court his patient reported he had been taking 21 standard drinks per day in the months leading up to his death.
He had also sought medication to manage pain associated with arthritis and a back injury.
Mr McInerney had been admitted to the emergency ward on several occasions because of suicide attempts, alcohol and chronic pain.
The inquest continues.
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