Beau Lamarre, a former police officer from New South Wales, is facing murder charges for the deaths of Jesse Baird and Luke Davies, which occurred in February. At a recent hearing in Sydney’s Downing Centre local court, Lamarre’s legal representative, John Walford, indicated that mental health might be a key aspect of the defense strategy.

The court learned that Lamarre is accused of using his police-issued weapon in the killings, and surrendered to authorities shortly after the incident. The case has been adjourned until June 18, with only a partial brief of evidence presented so far.

Baird and Davies were found deceased near a property in Goulburn. According to police reports, Baird’s killing was planned, whereas Davies was unfortunately caught in the crossfire. Following his arrest, Lamarre was discharged from the police service in March.

The community has reacted to the tragedy with memorials, including a service in Melbourne for Davies and a candlelit vigil held in Sydney which coincided with the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade.