An investigation is currently underway in Western New South Wales following the death of a 67-year-old man while in custody at a maximum-security correctional facility. The deceased, identified as Donny Hobbs, died on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, while being held on remand at Bathurst Correctional Centre. His death occurred days after a serious alleged incident involving a targeted attack on a regional police station.

According to initial police reports, the sequence of events began on Friday, May 29, at approximately 1:30 p.m., when Mr. Hobbs allegedly drove a utility vehicle toward officers conducting routine patrols near Mudgee Police Station. He is further alleged to have attempted to strike another officer exiting the station before accelerating and crashing directly into the front of the police building.

Authorities stated that the vehicle narrowly missed multiple officers and a civilian bystander during the incident. Although no significant physical injuries were reported, the impact resulted in substantial structural damage to the police facility, leading to its temporary closure. Emergency and customer service operations have since been relocated, including the deployment of a mobile service unit and support from a nearby station.

Following his arrest at the scene, Mr. Hobbs appeared before a weekend court session where he was charged with multiple offences, including dangerous driving and property damage. Bail was formally refused by Acting Judge Howard Bell, who cited an unacceptable risk to public safety. Prosecutors alleged the incident was premeditated and motivated by hostility toward law enforcement.

Mr. Hobbs was subsequently remanded to Bathurst Correctional Centre in a maximum-security unit. Corrective Services NSW later confirmed that he was found deceased in his cell on the morning of Wednesday, June 3, 2026. The official cause of death has not yet been released.

As required under protocol, a full investigation has been initiated by both Corrective Services NSW and the NSW Police Force, with the matter also referred to the NSW Coroner. A mandatory inquest will examine the circumstances of the death, including custody supervision and medical factors.

Authorities have stated that the Mudgee Police Station remains closed pending structural assessment and repair works.

The family of Donny Hobbs has indicated that funeral, memorial, and obituary details will be released at a later date. They have requested privacy during this period of mourning.