A ‘Bright and Bubbly’ Mom, 23, Was Shot Dead with ‘Homemade’ Firearm. Her Partner Has Now Been Charged with Murder

In a tragic and alarming incident in Biggera Waters, Australia, a young mother has lost her life due to suspected domestic violence. Mallorie Jane Roberts, aged 23, was found with critical gunshot wounds at her home on the Gold Coast on Sunday, June 28. Emergency services were called to the property shortly before 8 p.m. local time, where Roberts was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police have arrested Ethan Midgley, also 23 years old, who has been charged with murder in connection with Roberts’ death. Authorities reported that a “homemade” firearm was discovered at the residence, which is believed to have been the weapon used in the fatal incident. Midgley is also charged with unlawful possession of weapons used to commit an indictable offence related to domestic violence.

Roberts leaves behind a two-year-old son named Tyson, from a previous relationship. At the time of the tragedy, Tyson was with relatives and was not present in the household. This detail provides a rare glimmer of hope amidst the harrowing circumstances surrounding his mother’s demise.

Detective Acting Inspector Leia Urquhart described the scene as “pretty confronting,” noting that first responders and neighbours attempted their utmost to save Roberts. Despite their efforts, she was declared deceased upon their arrival. Reports indicate that police had previously been called to the couple’s home, but there was no existing domestic violence order in place, raising concerns about the extent of previous incidents.

Witness accounts reveal the traumatic atmosphere that accompanied the tragedy. A neighbour, Tobie Trethewey, reported hearing a “bloodcurdling scream,” while another, Bianca Davis, attempted to aid Roberts before emergency services arrived. Davis recalled, “She was just on the floor lifeless,” and described her desperate attempts to apply pressure to the wound, which ultimately proved fruitless.

As the community grapples with the grief of losing Roberts, friends have set up a GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral costs, as well as to support Tyson and Roberts’ family during this devastating time. Haylee Harris, a friend of Roberts, highlighted her loving nature in a statement, saying, “She was deeply loved and will be remembered for her beautiful heart.” The emotional tributes to Roberts extend beyond her friends; her mother, Felicity Hunt, expressed her heartbreak on social media, longing to hold her daughter one last time.

Friends and family painted a portrait of Roberts as someone who would always be there for others in need. Courtney Martin, another close friend, shared that Roberts was the kind of person who would “give them the shirt off her back.” This sentiment was echoed by Tiffany Swann, who described her as a “bright and bubbly” individual, deeply loved by those around her.

Midgley was scheduled to appear in Southport Magistrates Court the day following Roberts’ death; however, the case has since been adjourned until July, and he remains in custody while the investigation unfolds. As the legal proceedings move forward, the community continues to mourn the loss of a vibrant young woman whose life was cut tragically short.

In light of this incident, the issue of domestic violence remains critical. Authorities urge anyone experiencing domestic abuse to seek help through resources like the National Domestic Violence Hotline. The confidential hotline offers assistance 24/7 in numerous languages, serving as a vital lifeline for those in precarious situations.

As the investigation continues and the community seeks answers, the profound impact of this event resonates deeply. The memory of Mallorie Jane Roberts will endure in the hearts of those who loved her, particularly for her young son Tyson, who now faces a future without his mother.