URGENT UPDATE: In a shocking turn of events, crucial forensic evidence has emerged in the case against former RAAF pilot Robert John Crawford, who has been charged with the murder of his wife, Frances Crawford. The committal hearing commenced today at Ipswich Magistrates Court, revealing significant findings from Frances’ autopsy that may alter the course of the trial.
The court heard that Frances was discovered at the base of a retaining wall at their Upper Lockyer property, west of Brisbane, shortly after an alleged argument on the night of July 29, 2024. Forensic pathologist Dr. Andrej Kedziora testified that Frances sustained multiple fractures and abrasions, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding her death.
The Crown alleges that Robert Crawford acted out of a “murderous rage,” fatally strangling his wife before staging the scene to suggest she died from an accident involving their ride-on mower. Crawford, 47, has denied the allegations and is contesting charges of murder and misconduct with a corpse.
The autopsy report, which was delayed until February this year due to extensive testing, revealed a drop of blood on a rock at the crime scene. Dr. Kedziora noted, “It’s impossible to determine how much blood had gone into the ground,” but confirmed that Frances had indeed lost blood.
The defense raised a compelling argument, suggesting that the evidence does not conclusively rule out the possibility that Frances fell from the mower. Dr. Kedziora acknowledged that some injuries could correspond with a fall, particularly a significant laceration on her scalp which might have occurred during such an incident. He stated, “Even if the body falls from a height, the rib fractures could easily be sustained from falling on the ground or colliding with the retaining wall.”
The court was further informed of a notable abrasion found under Frances’ chin, which Dr. Kedziora speculated could have resulted from interaction with the mower itself. “If there was rubbing or multiple instances of rubbing or scraping, this could explain the injuries,” he said.
This case continues to unravel as the court examines the forensic evidence, with the committal hearing set to resume. Observers are keenly watching for how this evidence will shape the legal proceedings moving forward.
As this urgent story develops, the implications for Robert Crawford are significant. The emotional toll on the families involved is profound, and the community is left grappling with the aftermath of this tragic event.
