UPDATE: A shocking turn of events has emerged in the murder case of Crystal Beale, as her ex-partner, Jesse Wahlen Beale, allegedly conducted Google searches for local tide times just hours after her disappearance. The disturbing details were revealed in the Queensland Supreme Court during a bail application on Wednesday.
Crystal Beale’s body was discovered in the Brisbane River on February 22, 2023, by a rower just hours after she was last seen alive. The 49-year-old mother of two had been at a family dinner before her tragic fate unfolded. Prosecutors allege that Beale’s former partner, Jesse Wahlen Beale, aged 49, murdered her and later attempted to conceal the crime.
According to crown prosecutor Caroline Marco, at 11:36 PM on February 21, Jesse Beale searched the Bureau of Meteorology website for tide times. This was followed by searches at 3:49 PM the next day about VPNs hiding browsing history and at 4:01 PM regarding CCTV camera locations near him. These searches raise alarming questions about his actions during the critical hours of Crystal Beale’s disappearance.
The court also heard chilling evidence from a pathologist indicating that Crystal Beale suffered injuries consistent with strangulation, which could have led to her death. Further forensic analysis revealed a lack of diatoms in her bodily tissues, suggesting she did not enter the water alive, contradicting any defense claims.
Witnesses reported that Crystal confronted Jesse during their last argument at a restaurant in Brisbane’s southern suburbs around 9:30 PM. She accused him of being a “rapist” after discovering compromising photos on his phone. This explosive confrontation occurred just before she vanished.
Jesse Beale’s defense attorney, Greg McGuire, argued for bail, claiming the prosecution’s case was built on circumstantial evidence and “nonsensical” scenarios. He asserted that Beale had strong community ties, no prior relevant criminal history, and supportive friends willing to offer a $500,000 surety.
However, Justice Lincoln Crowley refused the bail application, stating that while the case is circumstantial, it is also robust, and Beale poses a flight risk. “The prosecution case, while circumstantial, appears to be a reasonably strong case at the present time,” Justice Crowley remarked.
This case highlights the dire realities of domestic violence and the tragic outcomes it can produce. As the investigation continues, the community is left grappling with the implications of this tragic event.
For those affected by domestic violence, support is available. Contact 1800 RESPECT at 1800 737 732, Lifeline at 13 11 14, or the National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service at 1800 211 028 for assistance.
Stay tuned for further updates as this case develops.
