Police have charged an Air Force pilot over the horrifying lawnmower death of his psychologist wife.
Queensland woman Frances Crawford was killed during an incident involving a ride-on lawnmower at their Thomas Road property in Lockyer Valley, west of Brisbane in July.
Mrs Crawford, 49, was found injured and unresponsive by emergency services at the bottom of a retaining wall in the property’s backyard. She was declared dead at the scene. It was her husband, Robert Crawford, who called triple-0.
While the mother of three’s death was initially thought to be a tragic accident caused by the lawnmower rolling over, police now believe Mrs Crawford was murdered.
On Thursday afternoon, Queensland Police revealed that detectives had charged Mr Crawford with one count of murder (domestic violence offence) and misconduct with a corpse by interfering.
The arrest comes days after police appealed for help to track down women all over the world who may know the victim’s husband.
Mr Crawford is expected to appear in the Ipswich Magistrates Court on Friday, October 11.
Police said in a statement that investigations were continuing.
Detectives confirmed that a number of people had provided information since their last public appeal and thanked them for their bravery in coming forward.
Anyone with information that can assist with investigations is still encouraged to contact police.
On Friday, Queensland Police regional crime coordinator Det-Supt. George Marchesini said police believed Mrs Crawford was murdered and that there were a number of people who could help with the investigation.
“We are particularly interested in speaking with people who knew of Frances or Robert Crawford and their personal circumstances, including their marriage,” he said.
“We believe there were women who were involved in relationships with Mr Crawford who may have information about Mrs Crawford that will assist with this investigation. Mr Crawford may have met these women on dating applications, and through his personal and professional life.”
“Investigations have revealed Mr Crawford has connected with women in Italy, United States of America, Papua New Guinea, Guam, Afghanistan, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Western Australia, Australian Capital Territory, Northern Territory, New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland.”
Mr Crawford is a squadron leader with the Royal Australian Air Force based at Amberley Air Base. Mrs Crawford worked as a psychologist at Quality Life Psychology Services in Toowoomba and was active with Toowoomba’s Restoration Church, according to the Courier Mail.
She was also involved with Toowoomba’s Restoration Church.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form.
Anonymous reports can also be made via Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000.
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