EXCLUSIVE
The grieving parents of a mother-of-three who died in a fatal lawnmower crash late at night say their son-in-law, who was a pilot in the RAAF, is devastated by the tragedy.
Frances Crawford, in her 40s, was found dead at 3.40am on Tuesday at her home on Thomas Road in Upper Lockyer, south-east Queensland.
Her body was found after police arrived at the scene following reports that she had been crushed by a lawnmower.
Crawford’s parents Joke and Ben Pilon told Daily Mail Australia on Thursday that their son-in-law Robert was devastated by his wife’s death.
They denied that there had been any previous local reports to police of domestic violence in the home.
“He’s broken,” said Mrs. Pilon.
“They lived here happily together. It’s just rumors.”
The Pilons said their daughter, a psychologist, grew up in the local Toowoomba area and the community has been shocked by her death.
Frances Crawford, in her 40s (pictured), was found dead at her home on Thomas Road, in Upper Lockyer, near Toowoomba, south-east Queensland, at about 3.40am on Tuesday
A police vehicle is seen on the estate on Thursday morning
One of the vehicles was a police officer in an unmarked van
Mrs. Crawford is survived by her husband, three children, her parents and siblings.
Her parents spoke out after detectives conducted a major raid on the estate on Thursday morning, as the investigation into the woman’s death continues.
Nine police cars were seen arriving at the property, which is located in the wooded area at the end of a 1km driveway.
The vehicles consisted of two forensic vans, detectives in an SUV, a van loaded with forensic equipment, two patrol vehicles and uniformed officers in an unmarked car.
According to the Pilons, police have thoroughly investigated the home, which remains a crime scene, and Mr. Crawford has been asked to temporarily leave the property pending investigation.
Despite a heavy police presence at the couple’s home, detectives are yet to confirm how Ms Crawford’s death is being handled.
Mr Crawford is an RAAF cargo pilot and squadron leader – a senior position and the equivalent of a major in the army – who operates from the Royal Australian Air Force base at Amberley, about 8km south-west of Ipswich.
Over the past two decades the couple have lived across Australia, including Sydney, Adelaide and Queensland, where Sqn Ldr Crawford has held various positions within the Australian Defence Force.
Husband Robert Crawford (pictured) is a squadron commander – a senior position and the equivalent of a major in the army – operating from the Royal Australian Airforce Amberley Base
Detectives on Tuesday collected evidence from the home (including the lawn mower, pictured) that has now been declared a crime scene
Forensic equipment was seen in one of the arriving cars
Tributes are pouring in for the respected psychologist, who is known for her “gentle nature” and kindness.
According to Quality Life Psychology Services, she was a “much loved and respected member” of their team.
“Frances always took the time to ask kindly and considerately about others and often responded with humility and thoughtful humor,” the clinic said.
‘Frances was a pleasant person to be around and her gentle nature will be greatly missed, but she will be long remembered by her colleagues, friends and clients at Quality Life Psychology Services.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Frances’ family at this tragic time.”