Faulconbridge deaths: Mum arrested as two children found dead in New South Wales’ lower Blue Mountains
Two children have died and their mother is under police guard in hospital after a shocking incident in the lower Blue Mountains region.
The boys’ father, Nick Smith, reportedly called triple-0 after he found his 9 and 11-year-old boys — Russell and Ben — dead and their mother injured at a Chapman Parade home in Faulconbridge just before 12.40pm (EST) on Tuesday.
The mother, Trish Smith, was transported to Westmead Hospital and remains under police guard after she was arrested.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The father was separated from the mother and did not live at the home, the Sydney Morning Herald reports.
Police were not aware of any history of domestic violence. According to The Australian police are investigating whether Ms Smith suffered a psychotic episode.
Police Commissioner Karen Webb said at a press conference that officers were called to the home after concerns were raised about the welfare of the woman and her children.
“Police attended a short time later and discovered the bodies of two children — two boys, one aged nine and one aged 11.
“A female has been transported to hospital. She is under police guard in hospital and she has been arrested.
“Police are not looking for any other persons, and a thorough investigation by Strikeforce Stafford has commenced.”
Commissioner Webb said officers who had responded to the scene would be offered support.
“I think the older and more experience you get in this job, things like this still cut to the core. It’s a tragic situation.”
Acting Superintendent John Nelson of the Blue Mountains Police Area Command said the family had no known history with police.
“It’s early stages, but what we can say there are no indications of any history with us in relation to this matter,” he said.
Supt. Nelson said the community was “genuinely shocked” by the incident.
“This is about as tragic as it gets.”
He said first responders have been provided with support.
Blue Mountains City Council mayor Mark Greenhill expressed his heartbreak over the boys’ deaths in a post to social media.
“Our community has lost two precious souls in the most awful circumstances and I know this will affect us all in some way,” he wrote.
“Now is a time to come together and remember these two beautiful children and their extended family whose grief must be as unimaginable.”
Homicide squad officers are assisting with the investigation.
Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report online.
The public is reminded not to report information via New South Wales Police social media pages.
