Investigation continues after two boys found dead by father at Blue Mountains home

A homicide investigation is continuing in the Blue Mountains after two boys were found dead by their father at their mother’s home.

He found the bodies of his two sons, aged nine and 11, inside the Faulconbridge house just before 1pm on Tuesday.

The boys’ mother Trish Smith, 42, was arrested and spent Tuesday night under police guard in hospital, where she arrived in a stable condition.

Police have declined to speculate on what had occurred before the brothers died, but they are not looking for any other parties.

No charges have been laid.

The Australian has reported that detectives are investigating whether the mother had suffered a psychotic episode.

Superintendent John Nelson confirmed the father, who has access to the home but does not live there, found the boys and contacted police.

“This is about as tragic as it gets for any police veteran, any emergency services turning up there,” he told reporters on Tuesday.

“It’s a very tragic scene. The Blue Mountains is a very peaceful, community-minded environment so they will be genuinely shocked.”

The boys had attended school on Monday, and police are investigating their movements since then.

The mother’s personal Facebook page is filled with photos of her and the children smiling together, showing them on frequent bush walks and beach visits.

Premier Chris Minns said the “horrifying, very distressing” incident was another reminder of how difficult the job of emergency services could be.

“I can only imagine what the father of those two boys is going through today and I want to assure him the people of NSW are behind him as he deals with the turning of his life upside down,” he told reporters on Wednesday.

“(This) has obviously distressed the people of NSW and I want to assure them every help will be provided to the father of those two boys in the days ahead as he deals with this incredibly distressing situation.”

The mother was known to police for only minor matters and early inquiries had not revealed any history of violence, police said.

A “thorough” police investigation is underway, Police Commissioner Karen Webb said on Tuesday afternoon.

“The older and more experienced you get in this job, things like this still cut to the core,” she said.

“It’s a tragic situation and certainly ... more will be known as the investigation unfolds.”

Clinicians and support officers were on hand for first responders, while the boys’ father was also receiving support.

Footage showed homicide detectives combing the scene on Tuesday afternoon.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.

If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000.

If you need help in a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. For further information about depression contact beyondblue on 1300224636 or talk to your GP, local health professional or someone you trust.

- With AAP