Air force pilot is charged with murdering his wife after her awful ride-on lawnmower death – as family issue heartbreaking statement
The RAAF pilot husband of a mother-of-three who died in a reported late-night lawnmower incident has been charged with murder, prompting her grieving family to break their silence.
Frances Elizabeth Crawford, 49, was found dead at her property in Upper Lockyer, southeast Queensland, at 3.40am on July 30.
Her husband Robert called the police, who found her body near a retaining wall in her backyard.
Queensland Police announced on Thursday that a 47-year-old man had been taken into custody and charged with murder (offence of domestic violence) and misconduct with a corpse by interfering with it.
He is expected to appear at Ipswich Magistrates Court on Friday.
“Detectives from the Crime and Intelligence Command Homicide Group and the Gatton Criminal Investigation Branch have charged a man in connection with the alleged murder of 49-year-old Upper Lockyer woman Frances Elizabeth Crawford in July,” the police statement said.
‘Emergency services were initially called to a report of an incident at the Thomas Road property in the Lockyer Valley just before 3.40am on July 30.
‘An investigation center was set up involving teams of detectives from the Crime and Intelligence Command Homicide Group and the Gatton Criminal Investigation Branch into the circumstances leading to her death.
“The investigation continues and there is no further information at this time.”
Robert Crawford, 47, was arrested at his home in Queensland on Thursday
Crawford was charged with murder (felony domestic violence) and misconduct with a corpse by interfering with
Frances Crawford was found dead on her property in Upper Lockyer in the early hours of July 30
Ms Crawford’s family have released a statement in response to the murder charge, describing the ‘very serious blow’ her children have suffered in all of this.
“Frances Crawford will be remembered as a loving mother, beloved daughter, sister and friend and dedicated healthcare worker and valued member of her church and community,” the statement said.
“Her death is devastating to all of us, even more so given the circumstances.
The death of ‘Frances’ will profoundly affect each of us for the rest of our lives, but none more so than her three beautiful children. They are wonderful young adults who will continue Frances’ legacy.
“They have indeed suffered a very heavy blow as they each embark on their own journey, but with the support of family and good people around them, they will not be defined by this or what came before.”
The family thanked police, their community and the media, but said they will now focus on “seeking justice for Frances.”
“While today is a step forward, unfortunately nothing will bring Frances back to us. “We know we have a long and difficult road ahead, both in grieving Frances and coming to terms with what has happened,” the statement continued.
“As we process our loss and events, we respectfully request privacy during this very difficult time.”
Police also released images Thursday of detectives speaking to Crawford at his home on Wednesday and arresting him.
Crawford is expected to appear at Ipswich Magistrates Court on Friday
Ms Crawford’s family released a statement thanking police and the community for their assistance with the investigation
The arrest comes after Crawford listed the “peaceful, off-grid” family home for rent on Airbnb in September for $350 a night.
The advertisement made no mention of the July tragedy and advertised it as being for a serene retreat.
‘Our house [is] a short drive to Toowoomba, and beautifully positioned to relax and enjoy the peace and serenity of nature,” it added.
The listing was removed after media publicity.
Last week, police issued a public appeal for anyone with information about the couple and their relationship to come forward.
They revealed Crawford had been messaging women across Australia and internationally on dating apps.
Queensland Police said people had contacted detectives in recent days thanking them for their “courage”.
Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is asked to come forward and contact police.