A 23-year-old woman described as a beautiful young mother with a smile that could light up any room has been allegedly shot dead in an act of domestic violence on the Gold Coast.
Incident details
Emergency services were called to a home on Loder Street in the suburb of Biggera Waters about 8pm on Sunday after a neighbour dialled triple zero. Police found Mallorie Jane Roberts with gunshot wounds at the scene. Detective Acting Inspector Leia Urquhart described it as a confronting scene. Despite the best efforts of first responders, Ms Roberts was declared dead at the scene.
Arrest and charges
Ethan Midgley, 23, was arrested at the home and charged with domestic violence-related murder and unlawful possession of weapons used to commit an indictable offence. Police seized a homemade, unregistered firearm allegedly used in the shooting. The victim and Midgley were in a relationship and lived together at the home. He is not the father of Ms Roberts' two-year-old son.
Victim remembered
Haylee Harris, a friend of the victim's family, said she was heartbroken by the loss. Mallorie had a beautiful smile that could light up any room, she was so funny, Harris said. Her little son was her whole world – he's got no mother now, he's only two, so I can only imagine what he's going through. The boy had been staying with other family members at the time of the shooting.
Police history
Detective Urquhart confirmed police had attended the Biggera Waters residence in the past, but said all background regarding the man and woman forms part of the investigation.
Community response
The Queensland Domestic and Family Violence Alliance expressed deep sorrow over the woman's death. Chief executive Melanie Arnost said tragedies like this are felt far beyond one household, affecting communities and those who work daily to prevent violence. A young woman's life has been taken, and with it, a future full of possibility, she said.
Harris set up a GoFundMe page to help Ms Roberts' family with financial support. She said she wants people to remember her as a loving mum, a daughter, a sister, and a friend. No woman deserves this - she deserved so much more time with these people she loved, Harris added.
Legal proceedings
Midgley's case was mentioned in Southport Magistrates Court and he was remanded in custody to reappear in July.
In Australia, domestic and family violence counselling is available from Full Stop Australia on 1800 385 578.
