Queensland police have charged the husband of a 49-year-old woman found dead near a lawnmower in the Lockyer Valley in July with her murder.
Robert Crawford, 47, was arrested on Thursday morning amid ongoing investigations into the alleged murder of Frances Elizabeth Crawford in the early hours of 30 July.
On Thursday afternoon, Det Supt George Marchesini told press Crawford faced two charges: one count murder – a domestic violence offence – and misconduct with a corpse by interfering.
The body of the psychologist and mother of three was found near a mower at the bottom of a retaining wall at her home in Upper Lockyer, west of Brisbane, about 3.40am that day.
Police put out a global call for people to come forward with information earlier this month.
Frances’ family issued a statement remembering her as a loving mother, beloved daughter, sister, friend and dedicated family member, healthcare professional and member of her church and community.
“Her death has been devastating to us all, even more so given the circumstances,” it read.
“Frances’ passing 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 been dealt a very difficult blow indeed as they each embark on their own journeys, however with the support of family and good people around them, they will not be defined by this or what has gone before.”
Robert Crawford is expected to appear in the Ipswich magistrates court on Friday.
On Thursday morning, police confirmed that “a number of people” had provided information since that public appeal and thanked those people for their bravery in coming forward.
Emergency services were initially called to the Thomas Road property after a report of an incident involving a ride-on lawnmower.
Police said Robert Crawford, who called triple zero, was the last person to see Frances Crawford alive and was at the property on the night she died.
