WARNING: Distressing content
The death of a father and his two-year-old son inside a northern NSW unit is being treated as a murder-suicide.
NSW Police discovered the two bodies after forcing entry into the Lismore East home about 9.45pm on Sunday after the boy’s mother called for a welfare check.
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Deputy Commissioner Peter Thurtell said the 38-year-old man was due to hand back his son to the mother after a custody visit that afternoon, but he never showed.
“They were due to hand over the child at 4.30pm and by 5.30pm she had contacted the police,” he said.
Thurtell confirmed the deaths were being treated as a murder-suicide and said no weapon was involved, but would not say exactly how the father and son died.
“A more tragic event you wouldn’t come across … it’s very sad and that’s a matter now being investigated and a report will be prepared for the coroner,” he said.
The man was known to police for previous domestic violence matters but not “significant issues”, Thurtell said.
The boy’s mother was local to the community, he added.
“Any of these issues are difficult for the police, but they are well-trained,” Thurtell said.
“Our welfare systems in place look after our officers. Our focus should be on the poor mother who has lost a child.”
A crime scene investigation has been established under Strike Force McGuren, and anyone with relevant information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
A report will be prepared for the coroner.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au.
In an emergency, call 000.