Police in Sydney’s eastern suburb of Elizabeth Bay have launched a critical incident investigation following the death of a man who fell from a balcony early Sunday morning. The 40-year-old man fell approximately eight storeys from a unit on Onslow Avenue shortly before 8 a.m.

Officers were at the scene attempting to investigate an alleged domestic violence incident involving the man and a 38-year-old woman that reportedly occurred on Saturday. Upon arrival, police sought to speak with the 40-year-old but were only able to communicate with the woman, who refused to allow them entry into the unit. After a brief period, the woman left the premises, and officers remained outside.

Shortly thereafter, police received a report that a man had fallen from the balcony. They located the man and provided first aid until emergency medical services arrived, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. The woman has not been accused of any wrongdoing in connection with the incident.

Due to the police presence at the time of the fall, the NSW Police has initiated a critical incident investigation to determine the circumstances leading to the man’s death. An independent review will also be conducted by the Police Professional Standards Command to scrutinize the response and actions of the officers involved.