An already deeply tragic case has taken a further heartbreaking turn with the death of a woman charged with the murder of her three-year-old daughter.

Lauren Ingrid Flanigan, 32, was found unresponsive in her cell at the Brisbane Women’s Correctional Centre on Friday night. Despite being rushed to hospital, she died from her injuries overnight, Queensland Corrective Services confirmed.

Flanigan had been in custody since last Monday, when she was arrested in the front yard of her Bundaberg home. Police were called to the property after reports of a seriously injured child. Her daughter, Sophia Rose, was found with multiple wounds and died at the scene despite desperate efforts to save her.

The devastating loss of Sophia had already shocked the community. Now, just days later, Flanigan’s sudden death has left many struggling to make sense of the unfolding tragedy.

“Queensland Corrective Services officers provided immediate assistance before paramedics transported the woman to hospital, where she died last night, June 1,” a QCS spokesperson said. “Support is being offered to the responding officers and their colleagues.”

Police have confirmed that the Corrective Services Investigation Unit (CSIU) is examining the circumstances of Flanigan’s death, and a report will be prepared for the Coroner.

Flanigan had not entered a plea and was scheduled to appear in court in July. Her death now leaves many unanswered questions, while intensifying the sorrow surrounding an already harrowing case.

Sophia’s father, Jai Ruane, a FIFO worker at a Central Queensland coal mine, was not home at the time of the incident. He has since returned and is caring for his two other children.

Speaking to 9NEWS, Ruane shared memories of his “bubbly” little girl, who he described as the “light” of his life. “She was always smiling, always wanting to help, just so full of life and love. She just had such a huge heart,” he said.

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