Murder-suicide described as heartbreaking by premier
The deaths of a couple and their teenage son, investigated by detectives as a double murder-suicide, have been described as unimaginable by a state premier.
Roger Cook said on Saturday the tragedy would “spread throughout the community and across Western Australia”.
“It is heartbreaking that the lives of two innocent children were taken,” he said in the statement.
“I urge anyone in distress to seek help.
“I want to offer my deepest condolences to everyone affected and thank the first responders who attended what was an incredibly confronting incident.”
WA police said they would not be releasing the family’s names in line with the force’s policy on such matters.
The bodies of the 50-year-old man, the 49-year-old woman and their 16- and 14-year-old sons were found at their home in the Perth suburb of Mosman Park on Friday morning.
A cat and two dogs were also found dead in the two-storey house in one of the city’s wealthiest riverside suburbs after a person who knew the family visited the property and became concerned.
“Although this investigation is in its early stages, police are investigating this matter as a murder-suicide,” Detective Inspector Jessica Securo said in a statement on Friday. he said.
No weapons were used in the incident, and police had no record of domestic violence involving the family.
He said the boys had “significant health issues” and the family had previously been involved in their care.
According to media reports, both were living with autism and were non-verbal.
While the cause of death has not yet been announced, a note was found in the house.
At least one of the boys attended Christ Church Grammar School, one of Perth’s top private boys’ schools.
Police cordoned off the crime scene in Mott Close, where blue overalls-clad detectives and forensic officers visited the high-walled property on Friday.
A forensic van was stationed outside the house on Saturday as police cars and staff continued to come and go.
The police teams who first arrived at the scene of the conflict were supported inside.
Det Insp Securo said: “This is a tragic and devastating incident in which a family lost their lives and the impact will be felt by the whole community.” he said.
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