Teenager, 17, charged with murder of 10-year-old sister
A Boolaroo, New South Wales, Australia, lakeside village is in mourning and disbelief after a teenage girl allegedly stabbed her 10-year-old sister to death. Police labeled the act as “unthinkable” and noted that it occurred without warning.
Emergency services swiftly responded to a home on Thurston Street in Boolaroo, situated 20 kilometers southwest of Newcastle, following a triple-zero call on Monday afternoon. According to Lake Macquarie commander Superintendent Tracy Chapman, a 10-year-old girl was discovered inside with multiple stab wounds to her upper body and tragically passed away at the scene.
The 17-year-old sister of the victim was apprehended and has been charged with domestic violence-related murder. Homicide squad commander Danny Doherty, speaking to reporters outside Belmont police station, stated, “We will allege she was solely responsible for the death of the 10-year-old,” expressing disbelief at the incident and highlighting the sensitivity of the ongoing investigation.
Doherty emphasized the emotional toll on the family, saying, “There’s a family at home who are still grieving, trying to come to terms with what happened to the 10-year-old family member and their loved one.” He added that the incident appeared to be completely unexpected based on available information.
Chapman noted, “There are no records of police being involved with this family previously for matters such as this.” Residents of Boolaroo, familiar with the family but wishing to remain anonymous, confirmed that the sisters resided with their mother and grandmother in a rented home within a newly built housing estate.
The community expressed shock and sorrow, with many unaware that children even lived in the home. As forensic police worked at the scene, residents in nearby establishments shared their condolences and described the situation as “absolutely horrible.”
Authorities mentioned that a “sharp instrument” was used in the alleged crime. The accused, a juvenile whose identity is protected, did not appear in court and did not seek bail. Instead, the court was informed that she would remain in custody pending further legal proceedings.
Reflecting on broader societal issues, Doherty acknowledged an increase in violent incidents but clarified that each case is unique and independent. He urged caution in drawing conclusions about larger trends.
Local support services and officials extended their condolences and offered counseling support to those affected by the tragedy, emphasizing the need for community solidarity and support during such challenging times.
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