A man has been charged with murder after a night that began with a reported break-in and ended with police uncovering a body at a fire-damaged property next door.
The series of terrifying events include the death of a woman at a property at Mole River, about 40 minutes west of Tenterfield along the Bruxner Highway. The Ironbark Road property sits in an isolated pocket of the Tenterfield Shire, where a former farm has in recent years been broken up into rural lifestyle blocks.
Police were called to the property about 9.35pm on Saturday, 19 September, following reports of a domestic violence incident. Officers attached to New England Police District were told a 37-year-old man had entered the property and attempted to steal a vehicle, before assaulting the homeowner, a 74-year-old man.
Officers arrested the 37-year-old at the scene. It was only when they moved on to a neighbouring property that they made a second, grimmer discovery: the body of a 70-year-old woman inside a house that had been partially damaged by fire.
Crime scenes were established at both properties, and an investigation was launched with assistance from the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad.
Following inquiries, the 37-year-old man was taken to Tenterfield Police Station, where he was charged with murder. Police will allege in court that the 37 year old accused man and 70 year old deceased woman were known to each other.
He was refused bail and is due to appear before Bail Division Local Court on Monday, 21 September, as the investigation into exactly what unfolded at Mole River that night continues.
Tenterfield Mayor Bronwyn Petrie said the tragedy had shaken the local community.
“The community is very concerned of hearing of this tragic event,” Mayor Petrie said. “We’re grateful that the alleged assailant has been swiftly apprehended and charged.”
Mayor Petrie linked the incident to broader concerns about policing and connectivity in isolated pockets of the shire. The region is still shaken after the home invasion of Keith and Diane Blessing at Torrington, about 50km due south of Mole River, in June this year.
“This demonstrates the needs of having our police numbers returned to full complement,” Mayor Petrie said.
It is understood the small Tenterfield station is understaffed by as many as four officers.
“This also emphasises the need for security in our rural areas, and how important connectivity for people to be able to call for assistance.”
“We all hope that the gentleman recovers quickly, and offer our condolences to the friends and family of the woman who died,” she said.
As inquiries continue, anyone with information is urged to contact New England police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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