Lowood, Queensland: Mother accused of killing four-year-old child identified as nurse, investigations continue

The mother accused of killing her four-year-old child had reportedly undergone recent mental health treatment and the Child Safety Department had been notified about the family’s matters.

The 31-year-old woman, who has been identified as a nurse, faced a Queensland court yesterday after being charged with her daughter’s alleged murder.

On Monday night, emergency services were contacted about 11.10pm with reports of a deceased child at a property on McInnes Street in Lowood, about an hour west of Brisbane.

The girl was found unresponsive and medical assistance was provided, however she was declared dead at the scene.

Two other children, both aged under three, were at home when the horrific alleged killing was carried out. They were unharmed.

The children’s 31-year-old mother was charged with one count of murder - domestic violence against a child on Tuesday morning.

The Courier Mail have reported that she underwent mental health treatment last month and that the Department of Child Safety had been notified about the family’s matters.

When approached by the publication, the department was unable to comment on the family’s case.

“As the matter is being investigated by the police, it would be inappropriate to comment further,” the spokesperson said.

A spokesperson from public health provider West Moreton Health was also unable to comment, according to the masthead.

“The death of a child is an absolute tragedy and our thoughts are with everyone involved. As this is a police matter, we are unable to provide further information,” the spokesperson said.

On Tuesday, Det-Insp. Michael Manago could not reveal the cause of the child’s death.

“A post-mortem examination will be conducted in the near future to establish greater clarity around how the child died,” he said.

However, The Courier Mail have reported that the mother, who had called triple zero, was accused of a deliberate drowning.

Det-Insp. Manago said the incident had “shocked the community”.

“This is an incredibly tragic situation, which is even more tragic given the presence of the other young children in the dwelling at the time,” he said.

“Our thoughts are with the child’s family and everyone else that’s been affected by this incident.”

The community of Lowood has been rocked by the incident, with one neighbour describing the moment he found out abut the tragedy to The Courier Mail.

“Honestly, I was crying,” he said.

“I did get emotional. I didn’t know them but it’s still a child. Really, you wouldn’t expect this in Lowood.”

Ms Phillips will be remanded in custody until June 16.

Det-Insp. Manago praised the efforts of first responders who attended the scene which he described as “confronting”.

“It’s always terribly tragic when someone loses their life, especially someone so young in the community,” he said.

“It was a terribly confronting scene for those responding and we’re offering all our support.”

If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, phone 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) or the Crisis Care Helpline on 1800 199 008.

Lifeline: 13 11 14.