The tragic case of Angela Silk, who was stabbed to death by her partner, Alexander George O’Sachy, has unveiled a disturbing narrative of domestic violence and loss. Silk, also known as Angela Goodwin, was killed during a violent altercation in Brisbane in September 2021. The Supreme Court recently heard O’Sachy plead guilty to the reduced charge of manslaughter, with a sentencing date scheduled for October 7. The case not only highlights Silk’s brutal fate but also raises serious questions about O’Sachy’s history, which includes connections to several other tragic deaths.
In the weeks leading up to her death, Silk’s distress was evident in her social media activity. A haunting Facebook post revealed her growing concerns. She reached out on a page titled “Keep Alex O’Sachy In Jail” and wrote, “I am dating Alex… Do I need to know more about this..?” This message has since been deleted, but it underscores her uncertainty and fear regarding O’Sachy, who had a documented history of violent behavior.
The circumstances surrounding Silk’s death were particularly harrowing. On the night of the incident, neighbours reported hearing a woman scream, followed by pleas for help. When a man arrived at their home, he discovered Silk in a pool of blood, suffering from a severe stab wound to her thigh that nearly severed a major artery. O’Sachy, who did not call for medical assistance immediately, was found attempting to clean up the scene, indicating a troubling attempt to control the narrative surrounding the event.
O’Sachy’s past is marred by a lengthy criminal history, with over 50 offenses to his name, including unlawful wounding and drug trafficking. Crown prosecutor Dejana Kovac highlighted that the attack on Silk mirrored another incident from 2008, where O’Sachy was convicted for similar violent actions against another woman. Silk had confided in friends about O’Sachy’s physical abuse, expressing that she was “terrified” of him.
The court proceedings have also shed light on O’Sachy’s involvement in the deaths of two teenagers and the overdose of a previous girlfriend. Notably, in 2006, O’Sachy was linked to the death of Leanne Thompson, a 15-year-old who took her own life while in a relationship with him. A coroner’s investigation revealed a pattern of violence and manipulation, with O’Sachy reportedly telling Thompson to take her own life.
O’Sachy also has ties to the death of another young man, Andrew Anderson, who died in 2005 from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. An investigation into his death highlighted O’Sachy’s presence on the evening leading up to the tragedy, although he faced no charges related to this incident.
Justice for Silk remains elusive for her grieving family, particularly for her children, who have lost their mother to such violence. The upcoming sentencing will provide a critical moment for reflection on the systemic issues surrounding domestic violence and the need for increased awareness and protection for victims.
For those affected by domestic violence, numerous resources and helplines are available to provide support and guidance. It is essential for individuals experiencing abuse to seek help and know that they are not alone in their struggles.
