UPDATE: A man has been charged with murder following the shocking discovery of a woman’s body in Hunter Valley. Christopher McLoughney, aged 37, was arrested on Saturday evening and will face court on Sunday after police linked him to the death of Rhukaya Lake, 39October 27, 2023, when a child walked approximately 300 to 400 meters to flag down motorists, raising the alarm that led police to the residence on Ellalong Street around 7:30 PM. Upon arrival, authorities discovered Lake’s body with a gunshot wound, prompting immediate investigations into the suspected domestic violence case.
McLoughney was apprehended at a sporting club car park in Bellbird, west of Newcastle, at 6:45 PM on Saturday. Police allege he was in possession of a sawn-off shotgun at the time of his arrest. He faces multiple charges including murder, two counts of possessing a prohibited drug, and possessing a firearm and ammunition without a license.
Residents have expressed their shock and sorrow. A neighbor described the scene as “devastating,” noting that Lake had “a lot of blood coming from her head.” Hunter Valley Police District Commander Superintendent Steve Laksa characterized the situation as a “traumatic incident” and emphasized the adverse impact on both the community and Lake’s family.
Police are continuing their investigation and have removed bags of evidence from the scene. McLoughney has been refused bail and is set to appear at Parramatta Local Court on Sunday, October 29, 2023.
Community members are rallying in response to this tragic event, with many sharing their condolences and outrage. A neighbor, Michelle Antonio, remarked, “It’s very heartbreaking,” highlighting the emotional toll on the close-knit community.
Officials are urging anyone with further information to come forward as they seek to bring clarity to this devastating case.
For those affected by domestic violence, support services are available. Lifeline can be reached at 13 11 14, while the National Domestic Family and Sexual Violence Counselling Service is available at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).
This incident underscores the urgent need for awareness and action against domestic violence, a critical issue affecting many communities globally. Stay tuned for more updates as the situation develops.
