Elderly Coonabarabran Grandmother Battles Mental Health Challenges Following Tragic Loss of Two Grandsons

Coonabarabran, New South Wales – A Coonabarabran grandmother has been admitted to a mental health facility following the tragic deaths of her two grandsons, aged six and seven, in what authorities are treating as a double murder. The boys were discovered by law enforcement officers during a welfare check at a property in Coonabarabran, in the state’s north-west, around 2 pm on Monday.

The situation has been described by the police as “confronting” and has sent shockwaves through the regional town. Detectives from the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad have launched an investigation into the incident, with local police providing assistance. The exact cause of the boys’ deaths is yet to be determined, with authorities treating the case as a double murder until more information becomes available.

The grandmother, whose name has not been released due to legal reasons, is currently receiving treatment in a mental health facility. Her condition is not known at this time, but the impact of the events has been described as “deeply traumatic” by a source close to the investigation.

The property where the incident took place has been cordoned off by police, with forensic officers combing the scene for evidence. The community of Coonabarabran, a town of around 3,000 inhabitants, is reeling from the news. The boys were students at a local school, where counselling services have been made available to both staff and students.

Detective Inspector Paul Tickner, who is leading the investigation, stated: “This is an extremely distressing case for all involved, including the police, paramedics and the wider Coonabarabran community. Our thoughts are with the family at this time. We are doing everything possible to provide support to them while also conducting a thorough investigation into what happened.”

Det. Insp. Tickner also urged anyone with any information to come forward. “This is a small, close-knit community. If anyone saw or heard anything unusual or has any information that may assist our investigation, we urge them to contact Crime Stoppers.”

The New South Wales education department has been providing support to the local school where the boys were studying. A spokesperson for the department said, “We are deeply saddened by this tragedy and are providing support to the school community. A team of psychologists is available to provide support to any students or staff who need it.”

The tragedy has highlighted the increasing need for mental health resources and support in regional areas of New South Wales. Mental health advocates have called on the state government to increase funding and resources for mental health services, particularly in regional and rural areas where access to such services can be limited.

As the community of Coonabarabran grapples with this tragic loss, the investigation into the boys’ deaths continues. The police are working diligently to piece together the circumstances surrounding this horrific case, all while supporting a grieving family and community.

Further updates are expected as the investigation unfolds, with the authorities pledging transparency and thoroughness in their pursuit of justice for the young lives tragically lost. The community, while shaken, remains united in their grief and their demand for answers.