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Health retreat responds to woman's suspected mushroom poisoning death

<p>The alternative health centre where Rachael Dixon died after consuming a drink allegedly containing <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/woman-dies-after-suspected-mushroom-poisoning-at-health-retreat" target="_blank" rel="noopener">poisonous mushrooms</a> have issued a public statement on the incident. </p> <p>The 53-year-old and her friends took part in a holistic wellness retreat at Soul Barn Creative Wellbeing Centre when Dixon fell ill on Saturday night after <span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px;">she allegedly crushed up mushrooms</span><span style="background-color: #ffffff; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px;"> and consumed them in a drink. </span></p> <p>While her two friends were rushed to hospital and released a few days later, Dixon went into cardiac arrest, and despite best efforts by paramedics, she died at the scene just after 12am.</p> <p>Soul Barn, a self-described “creative wellbeing centre” specialising in holistic and alternative practices issued a statement on Thursday saying they were devastated by the incident. </p> <p>They also claimed that the event on Saturday that Dixon attended was not run by the centre or facilitated by any of its staff.</p> <p>“Soul Barn hires out workshop (spaces) to external businesses and facilitators,” they said. </p> <p>“The event which took place on April 13 was a private event, and those facilitating the event do not work for or represent Soul Barn in any way.</p> <p>“None of our regular therapists staff or facilitators were present at any point during this event.</p> <p>“We share the shock and devastation of everyone involved, and our hearts are with those families affected.”</p> <p>The health centre will remain closed while police investigate Dixon's death and a report is being prepared for the coroner. </p> <p><em>Image: 7NEWS</em></p>

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Woman dies after suspected mushroom poisoning at health retreat

<p>A 53-year-old woman has died and two others have been rushed to hospital after allegedly ingesting poisonous mushrooms while at a holistic wellness retreat. </p> <p>Rachael Dixon became violently ill on Saturday night after she allegedly crushed up mushrooms and consumed them in a drink. </p> <p>Dixon and her two friends were at the Soul Barn Creative Wellbeing Centre, an "alternative health retreat" in Clunes, near Ballarat, when the incident occurred. </p> <p>An ambulance was called after reports she was in cardiac arrest and not breathing, and despite best efforts by paramedics, she died at the scene just after 12am.</p> <p>Her two friend were also rushed to hospital, but were released days later. </p> <p>Police are investigating her sudden death, and are expected to look into if the drink contained 'magic' mushrooms, which contain the hallucinogenic chemical psilocybin.</p> <p>Dixon's son Matthew paid tribute to his mother on Facebook, writing, "To the most loving, most caring person I've ever known can't thank you enough for everything you ever did for me and all the support you gave me."</p> <p>"Words can't begin to describe how much I will miss you, wish I could give you one last hug."</p> <p>Soul Barn has remained closed since the incident as local business owners and residents said the incident was "confronting" and "devastating".</p> <p>The death comes after Victorian authorities warned residents earlier this month that poisonous mushrooms were growing across the state.</p> <p>“Unless you are an expert, do not pick and eat wild mushrooms in Victoria,” acting chief health officer Evelyn Wong said.</p> <p>“There is no home test available to distinguish safe and edible mushrooms from poisonous mushrooms.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Facebook</em></p>

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Police seize suspect's car in Samantha Murphy investigation

<p>Detectives looking into Samantha Murphy's alleged murder have seized a car as part of their investigation. </p> <p>Police have reportedly been watching accused killer Patrick Stephenson for two weeks prior to his <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/new-details-emerge-in-samantha-murphy-murder-charge" target="_blank" rel="noopener">arrest</a> on Wednesday, according to <em>7NEWS</em>.</p> <p>They also reportedly seized Stephenson's 4WD as part of a probe into whether or not the Ballarat mum was hit by his car. </p> <p>Speaking to <em>The Herald Sun</em>, one neighbour recalled the moment police swarmed a Scotsburn home that Stephenson and his partner were reportedly house-sitting at on Wednesday morning. </p> <p>“There were all sorts of cars, they all looked like unmarked police,” the neighbour said.</p> <p>“It was about 6.30am when I went past… I put two and two together and I said to my wife: ‘I reckon something’s going on, I reckon they were police’.</p> <p>“And sure enough, later that day (the news of an arrest) was released.”</p> <p>Despite his arrest and murder charge, the 22-year-old, who is <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/everything-we-know-about-samantha-murphy-s-accused-killer" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the son of retired AFL player Orren Stephenson</a>, is not cooperating with police as they continue to search for Murphy's body. </p> <p>Murphy's family have shared a desperate plea as they continue to search for answers. </p> <p>“We are hoping he has a bit of a change of heart and that he will co-operate. That will help bring her home,” Murphy's husband, Mick, said on Friday.</p> <p>“We’d just like some more answers now.”</p> <p>Stephenson is due to face a committal mention on August 8.</p> <p><em>Images: 7News/ Facebook</em></p>

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Samantha Murphy's father breaks silence over suspect's arrest

<p>Samantha Murphy's heartbroken father has spoken out following the news of a man being arrested in connection with her disappearance. </p> <p>The 51-year-old mother from Ballarat was last seen on February 4th when she left her home for her daily morning run. </p> <p>Now, over a month since she was last seen, a 22-year-old man has been <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/man-arrested-in-search-for-samantha-murphy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">arrested</a> in connection with her disappearance. </p> <p>Since the news broke of the man's arrest, Murphy's father, John 'Pud' Robson told <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13166853/samantha-murphy-arrest.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Daily Mail Australia</em></a> that the arrest had taken the family by surprise. </p> <p>Robson, in his 80s, shared that he and his family found out about the arrest when it was first reported by the media.</p> <p>"My wife just texted me to say that it had been on the radio," he said. "We haven't been told and evidently Michael [Samantha's husband] hasn't been told either."</p> <p>Mr Robson said he knew nothing about the individual arrested by detectives, and had yet to be contacted by investigators about the arrest. </p> <p>"We haven't heard a thing unfortunately," he said on Thursday morning. </p> <p>"All my wife said is she heard it on Triple M [radio] that they'd arrested some bloke and that no charges have been laid yet."</p> <p>Mr Robson said he had no idea of any alleged links between the 22-year-old man arrested and his daughter, saying, "I haven't got the faintest, mate. Not in that age range. I'm never home, if you know what I mean."</p> <p>Samantha's father went on to say that he remained hopeful the arrest would provide some clarity over what had happened to his daughter. </p> <p>"I can only hope that he is the bloke responsible because that way, we might get a bit of closure," he said. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Facebook / Victoria Police </em></p>

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Family of missing Ballarat woman suspect foul play

<p>The family of missing Ballarat woman Samantha Murphy have shared their theories behind the 51-year-old's disappearance, believing foul play may have been involved. </p> <p>Samantha was last seen 12 days ago, in the early hours of the morning on February 4th when she went out for her daily run. </p> <p>Now, Samantha's aunt and uncle have shared their theories on their niece's disappearance, both suggesting she may have been abducted. </p> <p>"It's just like she's gone off the face of the Earth. There's nothing," Janice Robson, Samantha's aunt, told <em><a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13085895/Samantha-Murphy-missing-Ballarat-family-break-silence.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Daily Mail Australia</a></em>. </p> <p>"I would say that somebody would have been watching her. I can't think it would be anything else."</p> <p>Mrs Robson said police had not been forthcoming with any information about the investigation other than what is already known among the general public. </p> <p>"Any information (the police) have they'll sit on it. They don't want to spook anyone," Allan Robson said.  </p> <p>Their comments come just hours after Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Shane Patton confirmed detectives now believe Ms Murphy's disappearance is suspicious, ramping up their investigation. </p> <p>Mr Robson said his niece was financially secure and pondered whether someone may have hurt her in a robbery gone wrong, saying "Mick [Samantha's husband] had so many cars he couldn't fit them in his garage."  </p> <p>"I don't think it's an opportunist. I think it's been someone who has been stalking her. Someone who she didn't even know was stalking her."</p> <p>He also went on to suggest the alleged stalker knew her patterns and daily routines, explaining why she went missing during her morning run. </p> <p>The elderly couple said Ms Murphy was a clever and careful person who had the ability to defend herself if someone attempted to harm her. </p> <p>"She would have put up a bloody good fight," Allan said. </p> <p>"And I think if she suspected something, I don't think she'd hang about. She was a runner. She would have got out of that area," Mrs Robson added. </p> <p><em>Image credits: 7News / Victoria Police </em></p> <p class="mol-para-with-font" style="font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 16px; padding: 0px; min-height: 0px; letter-spacing: -0.16px; font-family: graphik, Arial, sans-serif;"> </p>

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More than a third of people with dementia don’t know they have it – what to do if you suspect your partner has the condition

<p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/kate-irving-1493654">Kate Irving</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/dublin-city-university-1528">Dublin City University</a></em></p> <p>Around <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-67613465">36% of people</a> in England with dementia are unaware they have the condition, according to a new report from the Dementia Commission.</p> <p><a href="https://chamberuk.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/231127-Dementia-Commission-Report-Embargoed.pdf">The report</a> suggests things health and care professionals can do to improve spotting early signs of dementia. But what can you do if you think your partner has the condition? And how can you broach the topic with them?</p> <p>If you are worried about your partner having dementia, here are some useful things to know.</p> <p>Dementia is a term for a range of diseases (for example, Alzheimer’s) which develop over time (months and years) and cause problems with memory and reasoning, communication, changes in personality and a reduction in a person’s ability to carry out daily activities, such as shopping, washing, paying bills or cooking.</p> <p>Dementia can present very differently in each person, so it’s about knowing what’s normal for your loved one. A person who has always been conscientious and organised starting to unravel is very different from a scatterbrained person just being slightly more scatterbrained.</p> <p>Grief and stress can affect memory yet not be the start of dementia. But they can also mask the start of dementia: we call this “diagnostic over-shadowing”.</p> <p>There are also age-related changes to cognition. For example, we take longer to learn when we get older. But a one-off event – no matter how dramatic – is not necessarily dementia. It’s about looking for a pattern of decline.</p> <p>If you see these changes happen in a short space of time (weeks or days) it is unlikely to be dementia and could be something more serious. This requires urgent investigation by a doctor.</p> <h2>Greatest fear</h2> <p>Dementia is one of the greatest fears of our age. The horror of perceived loss of self can cause people to avoid discussing the issue, discussing it in an unhelpful way (such as criticising or inadvertently humiliating) or discussing it with other relatives, but not the person they are noticing changes in.</p> <p>Over time, this can cause a lack of trust to develop. Discussing memory problems openly with the person at the point of a memory failure or if they raise the concern is best. Of course, it takes courage and makes us face our own vulnerability.</p> <p>Sometimes the person will be in denial or lack insight into the memory problems (this can be a symptom of dementia, but isn’t always). If someone raises a concern about their memory issues, I would urge you not to minimise this, as it probably took courage to admit their concerns.</p> <p>I heard a relative say to my mother: “Oh, you left the pot on the stove. I lost the car in the multistory the other day.” My mother had dementia – the relative did not.</p> <p>If they are adamant that they do not have concerns, this is harder to deal with. One approach is to say: “I know you are not concerned, but I am concerned and I wonder if you would see a doctor to ease my worries?”</p> <p>Also explaining that memory problems can at least to some extent have reversible causes means a visit to the doctor to at least rule these out is an important step. It may also be encouraging to say to the person: “If there is something with your memory that will get worse over time, would you want to know?” (Most people <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2408568/">answer yes</a> to this).</p> <h2>Seeing a GP</h2> <p>If your partner agrees to visit a GP, it is helpful to prepare by filling in a diary for a week with the kind of memory (or other) problems experienced, what was happening at the time and the effect of the memory failure. This can be shared with a GP to help them to understand the issues.</p> <p>When people hear even the suggestion of the word dementia, they are faced with the uncertainties of what will become of them, of what they will lose, what they can keep up and where they will end up. These uncertainties are often shared with family members. But research shows that positive aspects of timely diagnosis <a href="https://www.scie.org.uk/dementia/symptoms/diagnosis/early-diagnosis.asp">outweigh fears</a> over time.</p> <p>At the same time, there are often ongoing stresses to do with memory impairments or confusion. With these stresses, everyday life can be troublesome, family relationships can suffer, and people can find it difficult to be supportive of each other.</p> <p>Being honest and open is the best policy. Stating that we are in this together, I want to help, let’s meet whatever happens head on, can help. If a person becomes resistant, it may be there is another family member who might better assist the person.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/219172/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/kate-irving-1493654"><em>Kate Irving</em></a><em>, Professor of Clinical Nursing, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/dublin-city-university-1528">Dublin City University</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/more-than-a-third-of-people-with-dementia-dont-know-they-have-it-what-to-do-if-you-suspect-your-partner-has-the-condition-219172">original article</a>.</em></p>

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Foul play suspected in tragic death of TV star's 15-year-old niece

<p dir="ltr">Police are investigating the death of TV star Audrina Patridge’s 15-year-old niece, after her cause of death was revealed to be a drug overdose. </p> <p dir="ltr">Young Sadie passed away in February just nine days after her 15th birthday.</p> <p dir="ltr">Police are still looking into the exact manner of how the teenager died, as they are investigating different avenues of how the drugs entered her system.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sources have been trying to figure out how the teenager got her hands on narcotics, adding that police have learned that she allegedly used Snapchat to procure Percocet that was laced with fentanyl.</p> <p dir="ltr">Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid drug, which can be up to 100x stronger than typical opioid drugs like morphine. </p> <p dir="ltr">Fentanyl, a very fast acting medication, is a prescription drug used during surgeries and prescribed for very severe pain, often in late-stage cancers.</p> <p dir="ltr">Despite being an effective pain reliever, Fentanyl is also manufactured illegally and may be sold as powder, fake pills or mixed in with other illicit drugs, like heroin, with this combination being especially deadly.</p> <p dir="ltr">Audrina, known for her role on <em>The Hills</em>, shared the heartbreaking news in February that her niece had passed away in a 10-slide Instagram tribute.</p> <p dir="ltr">“My heart hurts to even write this. My beautiful niece is now in heaven,” she captioned the slide show that looked back on cherished memories.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I know it’s not goodbye forever, but it is the hardest to say goodbye for now. We will miss you and cherish every single moment we had with you. Rest in peace Say Say!! We love you forever &amp; ever!”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Instagram</em></p>

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Elite school under fire over comments about Lilie James' suspected killer

<p>The recent <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/slain-st-andrew-s-staffer-identified" target="_blank" rel="noopener">murder of 21-year-old Lilie James</a> at St Andrew's Cathedral School in Sydney has raised profound questions about the nature of violence, the portrayal of perpetrators and the responsibilities of our educational institutions.</p> <p>What made this tragedy even more unsettling was a newsletter written by Dr John Collier, headmaster of the Shore School in North Sydney, <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">first <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-11-04/sydney-school-principal-lilie-james-murder-criticised-newsletter/103062628" target="_blank" rel="noopener">published by the ABC</a>, </span><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">in which he described the suspected murderer, Paul Thijssen, as "an absolute delight" and "not a monster". This statement has sparked a wave of controversy and calls for reflection within the community.</span></p> <p>The horrifying incident that unfolded at St Andrew's Cathedral School last week sent shockwaves throughout the community. The life of a promising young woman was abruptly cut short, and the alleged perpetrator, her former boyfriend Paul Thijssen, <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/lilie-james-grieving-family-breaks-silence-as-body-is-found-in-manhunt-for-suspect" target="_blank" rel="noopener">was found dead</a> after an extensive police search. Dr Collier, who had served as headmaster of St Andrew's between 2010 and 2022, knew Thijssen during his time there and described him as a "fine student, a prefect, a role model".</p> <p>In his newsletter titled "Looking in the Face of Savagery", Dr Collier wrestles with the apparent contradiction between the image of Thijssen as a seemingly normal and well-adjusted young man and the heinous act he committed. Dr Collier's description of Thijssen as "an absolute delight" and "not a monster" has ignited a fierce debate about the language used to describe individuals who commit such acts of violence.</p> <p>"What is chilling about the tragedy which unfolded at St Andrew's, the shock and grief of which will cascade for a long time, is that the young man concerned was, in everybody's estimation, an absolute delight," Dr Collier wrote. "He appeared to be just like the best of us. An hour before he committed the atrocity, he was speaking in a relaxed, friendly mode with staff at that school.</p> <p>"He was not a monster; rather, in the last five hours of his life, he committed a monstrous act which was in complete contradiction to what everyone who knew him observed in the rest of this short life.</p> <p>"What led to his mental disintegration? Was it a psychotic episode which was deeply out of character?"</p> <p>Sexual consent advocate Chanel Contos pointed out to the ABC that this incident is symbolic of a more extensive problem that must be addressed. She argues that the normalisation of violence must be confronted and that we cannot simply classify such individuals as anomalies. Contos emphasises the importance of instilling a culture of respect and accountability, particularly within educational institutions.</p> <p>Schools like St Andrew's and Shore play a vital role in shaping the values and behaviours of young people. Shore acknowledged the criticism surrounding Dr Collier's newsletter and emphasised its commitment to building "good men" through character development programs that promote respect for women. However, this incident serves as a stark reminder that there is still much work to be done in addressing issues related to toxic masculinity, entitlement and violence.</p> <p>Lilie James's tragic death serves as a painful reminder of the urgent need to challenge harmful stereotypes, address toxic behaviours, and hold individuals accountable for their actions.</p> <p><em>Images: Facebook</em></p>

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Lilie James' grieving family breaks silence as body is found in manhunt for suspect

<p>Lilie James' devastated family have spoken out for the first time, following her <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/slain-st-andrew-s-staffer-identified" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tragic death</a>. </p> <p>The 21-year-old water polo coach was found dead with serious head injuries at the gymnasium bathroom of St Andrew’s Cathedral School on Wednesday night. </p> <p>Her male colleague and ex-boyfriend Paul Thijssen is believed to be involved in her <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/tragic-new-details-emerge-in-alleged-murder-of-lilie-james" target="_blank" rel="noopener">alleged murder</a>, when he went missing at The Gap in Vaucluse, after reportedly calling the police informing them of a body on school grounds. </p> <p>A body has reportedly been found at the base of the cliffs in Diamond Bay Reserve, however police are currently unable to confirm whether the body was that of 24-year-old Thijssen. </p> <p>“A police operation is currently underway to retrieve a body in Vaucluse,” NSW Police said in an earlier statement.</p> <p>“No further information is available at this time.”</p> <p>Detectives are currently investigating the possibility that Thijssen had taken his own life, as The Gap is a notorious suicide spot, and Thijssen's backpack and an item linked to the alleged homicide was found there. </p> <p>On Friday morning, her family have broken their silence following the grim discovery. </p> <p>“We are devastated and heartbroken by the loss of our beautiful Lilie James,” the family said in a statement released by the police. </p> <p>“She was vibrant, outgoing, and very much loved by her family and friends. We are tremendously grateful for the support of our community at this difficult time.</p> <p>“As a police investigation is underway, we will not be providing further comments.</p> <p>“We ask that you please respect our privacy.”</p> <p>Students have been paying tribute to the fallen water polo coach with a growing flower memorial at the school's entrance. </p> <p>A few of the students she coached also told<em> 7NEWS.com.au </em>that she was an “amazing” and “encouraging” coach.</p> <p>"She always had a smile on her face,” one student said.</p> <p>“You will be in all of our prayers and hearts. Thank you for making PE so much fun, thank you for being an amazing and strong coach, and thank you for being there. We love you,” another student said.</p> <p><em>Images: 7NEWS/Facebook</em></p>

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Past charges against mushroom poisoning suspect uncovered

<p>Erin Patterson, the woman under investigation for allegedly cooking the deadly mushroom meal that claimed the lives of three people, has previously faced a series of charges after being involved in a drunk-driving incident.</p> <p>According to reports from The Australian, the 49-year-old was convicted in 2004 of driving drunk in an unregistered vehicle. </p> <p>Court records have revealed that Patterson, who was then known as Erin Trudi Scutter and was aged 29, faced legal consequences for her reckless actions, losing her license for 30 months after crashing her vehicle in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne while heavily intoxicated.</p> <p>The reports revealed that after the crash, she fled from authorities by speeding away from the crash scene, reaching 95 km/h in a 60 km/h zone.</p> <p>The convictions that were handed down were for charges of failing to stop a vehicle after an accident, failing to provide identifying information after causing property damage, using an unregistered vehicle on a highway, failing to provide information after property damage, and driving at 95 km/h in a restricted 60 km/h zone.</p> <p>At the time of the crash, Erin's blood alcohol level was 0.14 per cent, indicating significant impairment, however the charges of drink driving were dropped, potentially due to overlapping elements in other charges.</p> <p>Patterson has yet to comment on the previous charges, after being advised by her lawyer not to make any public comments as she remains under investigation for the deadly mushroom meal. </p> <p>She has <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/details-of-erin-patterson-s-police-statement-around-fatal-mushroom-meal-revealed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">denied any wrongdoing</a> in the mushroom incident, although according to police, they are investigating Patterson because she was the only adult among five who did not either die or suffer severe illness after ingesting the deadly mushrooms.</p> <p><em>Image credits: A Current Affair</em></p>

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Vegan raw food influencer dies of suspected "starvation and exhaustion"

<p>Zhanna Samsonova, a well-known vegan raw food influencer with a significant following on social media, has tragically passed away in Malaysia reportedly due to starvation and exhaustion resulting from her 'extreme' tropical fruit diet.</p> <p>For a decade, Zhanna, also known as Zhanna D'Art, had maintained a raw plant-based diet, which mainly consisted of exotic fruits, sunflower seed sprouts, fruit smoothies, and juices. Additionally, she occasionally practiced 'dry fasting,' abstaining from food and water for extended periods.</p> <p>The 39-year-old influencer, who had not consumed water for over six years, replaced it solely with fruit and vegetable juices. On July 21, she succumbed to what her mother described as a cholera-like infection exacerbated by her highly restrictive eating habits.</p> <p>At the time of her passing, Zhanna was in Malaysia, continuing her travels across Asia, which had spanned 17 years. Her family faced bureaucratic challenges in repatriating her body back to Russia, making the mourning process even more difficult. At the time of writing, her official cause of death has not yet been determined.</p> <p>Zhanna's mother, Vera Samsonova, expressed her disapproval of her daughter's extreme diet and had attempted to persuade her to adopt a more balanced approach, but her efforts were in vain.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CtLLqS1PecT/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CtLLqS1PecT/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Raw food Creation by Zhanna D’art (@rawveganfoodchef)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Over time, the influencer transitioned from a vegan diet to a purely raw food diet, sharing what she believed were 'healthy' recipes on her Instagram profile. However, her social media presence started to reveal an increasingly emaciated appearance, raising concerns among her followers, friends, and family.</p> <p>Many of her loved ones warned her about the potential dangers of her extreme diet, but Zhanna remained steadfast in her convictions. Ultimately, her refusal to heed their advice led to a tragic outcome, with reports indicating that her raw food diet contributed significantly to her demise.</p> <p>In 2021, during a trip to Russia, Zhanna contracted COVID-19 and chose to handle it through an unorthodox method of dry fasting, lasting more than ten days. Despite initially claiming to have overcome the virus, her health may have been compromised, leading to further complications down the line.</p> <p>The passing of Zhanna Samsonova has sparked discussions about the importance of balanced and informed dietary choices. Her story serves as a cautionary tale, urging individuals to approach extreme diets with care and consideration for their overall well-being.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

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Suspect revealed in double murder of elderly couple

<p>A 62-year-old woman from Adelaide has had official charges laid against her by South Australian police over the alleged double murder of her elderly parents – Brenda and Lynton Anderson – who police believe were <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/double-murder-investigation-launched-into-elderly-couple-who-died-a-year-apart" target="_blank" rel="noopener">deliberately poisoned a year apart</a>.</p> <p>After initially concealing the identity of the suspect, detectives – who had been treating the deaths of Andersons, both aged 94, as a double murder – described their main person of interest as someone who was <span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">"known and close to both of them." </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">At the time, Detective Inspector Mark McEachern told reporters that </span>suspicions had arisen due to similarities and irregularities found in the toxicology reports of the deceased Andersons.</p> <p>It was determined that the presence of certain medications in their systems was unexplained and raised concerns. "There was no reason for the medication to have been in their system and that's raised concerns in respect of both deaths," McEachern said.</p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">"Mrs Anderson's hospital death was identified during the coronial investigation process after toxicology results gave significant rise for concern. </span><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">When an innocent explanation for toxicology abnormalities was eliminated, the possibility Mrs Anderson's death being a deliberate act by another party became the primary subject of the investigation.</span></p> <p>"It is believed Mrs Anderson was killed by a person known to her and in close enough relationship to have been visiting her while she was in hospital."</p> <p>In the case of Lynton Anderson, he was discovered unconscious at his residence in Hackham by a caregiver on April 30. He was immediately transported to Flinders Medical Centre by SA Ambulance but succumbed to his condition the following day. Detectives then became suspicious of his toxicology results after closely analysing Brenda's case. </p> <p>After ruling out any of the carers who looked after the Andersons during their time in hospital, SA p<span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">olice have now taken the couple’s daughter – Raelene Polymiadis – into custody and laid appropriate charges against her.</span></p> <p>It will be alleged by SA Police that Raelene Polymiadis carried out her crimes while visiting her parents – mother Brenda while she was being treated in hospital for unrelated issues, and father Lynton at his Hackham home.</p> <p><em>Images: SA Police</em></p>

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8-year-old boy dies in suspected electrocution while on holiday

<p>An 8-year-old boy has been found dead at a popular Fiji resort while on holiday. </p> <p>The young boy was holidaying with family last week at the Club Wyndham Denarau Island resort, located on Fiji’s main island, a resort spokesperson confirmed.</p> <p>He was found unresponsive by another guest in the gardens of the resort last Thursday, and was unable to revived. </p> <p>Fiji police are working with resort staff to determine whether the boy may have been electrocuted.</p> <p>"Initial information gathered is that the child was allegedly electrocuted however the post-mortem will have to confirm that," a Fiji police spokesperson told the <a title="Sydney Morning Herald" href="https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/eight-year-old-sydney-boy-allegedly-electrocuted-dies-at-fiji-resort-20230213-p5ck73.html" target="" rel="">Sydney Morning Herald</a>. </p> <p>The boy, who has yet to be named, was a New Zealand citizen but was living in Sydney before he and his family took off on holiday. </p> <p>A Wyndham Destinations Asia Pacific spokesperson said the death was a “tragic accident” but could not comment on the cause of death.</p> <p>“We have expressed our heartfelt condolences to the family and our thoughts remain with them at this time,“ they said.</p> <p>“Our management team is currently conducting a thorough investigation into the incident, and co-operating with the police and authorities."</p> <p>New Zealand’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade also confirmed it was aware of the death and is providing assistance to the family.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Club Wyndham South Pacific</em></p>

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Maddie McCann suspect charged with sex offences

<p dir="ltr">Christian Brueckner, the only suspect in the Madeleine McCann case, has been charged with several sex offences. </p> <p dir="ltr">The 45-year-old, who is already in jail for raping a 72-year-old American woman in the Portuguese resort of Praia de Luz in 2005, is the only suspect in the Maddie McCann case.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Braunschweig prosecutor's office said Brueckner has been charged with several sex offences he committed in Portugal between December 28, 2000, and June 11, 2017.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The accused is the same person against whom charges were brought in connection with the disappearance of the then three-year-old British girl Madeleine Beth McCann,” they said in a statement. </p> <p dir="ltr">"Specifically, the accused is charged with three offences of aggravated rape and two offences of sexual abuse of children.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Police are however continuing their investigation into the disappearance of the then three-year-old who vanished in May 2007 from her bedroom in the Algarve apartment where her family were staying.</p> <p dir="ltr">"The investigation into the disappearance of Madeleine McCann continues."</p> <p dir="ltr">"In view of the ongoing investigation, it is not possible to provide any further information on the results of the investigation so far."</p> <p dir="ltr">Brueckner, who was first named as a suspect in the case in April 2022, has denied any involvement in the disappearance of Maddie.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

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Crime scene established after suspected murder-suicide at retirement village

<p dir="ltr">An elderly couple who were found dead in their unit at an Adelaide retirement village have been identified, with police treating their deaths as a murder-suicide.</p> <p dir="ltr">Barbara and Dennis Willshire, both 92, were found on Wednesday morning by a staff member during morning rounds, though police say it is unclear when the couple died.</p> <p dir="ltr">After the staff member raised the alarm, police and paramedics were called to the unit, which is part of a larger retirement and nursing home precinct in Glynde.</p> <p dir="ltr">The quiet village quickly became a crime scene, with major crime detectives working all day to piece together what happened in the leadup to the couple’s death.</p> <p dir="ltr">Superintendent Matt Nairn of South Australia Police said it was believed that the man killed his wife and then himself, though a full investigation would be conducted.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We believe it is a murder-suicide and, at this stage, we believe the man has killed potentially his wife and then taken his own life,” Nairn said.</p> <p dir="ltr">He added that there was nothing untoward known about the couple’s relationship and that their children had been notified.</p> <p dir="ltr">“As you can imagine, this is very tragic for a family,” Nairn said.</p> <p dir="ltr">Barbara and Dennis were known for being social and their deaths have sent shockwaves through their community, with neighbours saying it was “one of those things you don’t face every day”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Living in a courtyard like this you get to know people,” one neighbour said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Very sorry for everyone. It’s one of those things you don’t face every day,” another said.</p> <p dir="ltr">The couple’s best friends of 30 years, who moved into a neighbouring unit to be close to them, were particularly affected.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We did a lot of things together as older people,” the couple said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It’s a big shock to us… it’s hard to accept.</p> <p dir="ltr">“If you wanted to know anything you asked Dennis because he was a very bright person.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Dennis and Barbara’s friends also said Barbara has become increasingly unwell over the past four months.</p> <p dir="ltr">“She was very unwell and Dennis was very distressed about the whole situation, she’d been unwell for about three months,” one said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It’s hard to accept that they’ve gone… I still can’t believe it.”</p> <p dir="ltr">A spokesperson for Lutheran Homes Group, which operates the retirement village, told the ABC the pair had been living independently in the unit where they were found, and that the village was offering both pastoral and counselling support for those who needed it.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Pastoral support is being offered to residents, as well as counselling support for staff. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and our Glynde community at this difficult time,” they said.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>If you are experiencing a personal crisis or thinking about suicide, you can call Lifeline 131 114 or beyondblue 1300 224 636 or visit lifeline.org.au or beyondblue.org.au.</strong></p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-42c82bbf-7fff-ec7e-f4b8-f51ce7f57314"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Nine News</em></p>

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Pro cyclist shot dead at 25, suspect at large

<p>Elite cyclist Anna Moriah “Mo” Wilson was preparing to compete in a marathon race in Texas, before she was shot and killed at a friend's home in Austin. </p> <p>The 25-year-old athlete was hot off the trail of a series of successes in her spring season before she was killed. </p> <p>US Marshals are investigating her death, as they search for a 34-year-old woman suspected of her murder, while police investigators are digging into Wilson’s past relationship with the suspect’s boyfriend.</p> <p>Wilson’s family is mourning the loss of their “beautiful daughter and sister,” who excelled as a biker and skier.</p> <p>“Moriah was a talented, kind, and caring young woman. Her life was taken from her before she had the opportunity to achieve everything she dreamed of,” the family said.</p> <p>Moriah was at the top of her game in the relatively new sport of gravel racing, and was just days from participating in the Gravel Locos bike race at the time of her death. </p> <p>The day after the race, an event organiser remembered her on Facebook as a “role model, a shy compassionate person, a spirited tactical racer and a competitor that genuinely cared about those competing against you.”</p> <p>Kaitlin Marie Armstrong, a 34-year-old Austin resident, is wanted for homicide in the killing and is now a fugitive, the US Marshals said.</p> <p>Both women had recently been in romantic relationships with the same man - professional cyclist Colin Strickland - and messages and interviews with tipsters suggest jealousy could be a potential motive, according to the affidavit filed in Travis County District Court.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p>

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Prime suspect in Madeleine McCann case breaks silence

<p dir="ltr">Less than a week after being declared an official suspect in the disappearance of Madeleine McCann, Christian Brueckner has spoken out in a letter sent from his prison cell.</p> <p dir="ltr">After the 45-year-old <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/major-development-in-madeleine-mccann-case" target="_blank" rel="noopener">was named an “arguido” or “official suspect”</a> by Portuguese prosecutors late last week, he sent a letter to an unidentified woman that was shared with the <em><a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10746893/Maddie-suspect-Christian-Brueckner-describes-known-bad-person-world.html?ito=social-facebook&amp;fbclid=IwAR0n1qmfxrYztgKZoYWmMzuR-SDwnTKjYBBOzPHeKQEABDgoA4M3fSHi0ik" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Daily Mail</a></em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">In the five-page letter, he stressed he wasn’t at the Praia de Luz resort at the time of Madeleine’s disappearance in May, 2007 and has become “the most known bad person in the world and did nothing - well almost nothing”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I wasn’t kidnapping anybody and of course, I wasn’t killing anybody,” he wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I’ll go further, I’ll tell you I wasn’t attacking anybody after I was 18.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I made some silly mistakes when I was younger but who hasn’t?”</p> <p dir="ltr">According to the Daily Mail, he then referred to the McCann case, writing: “Perhaps I was a suspect after all they found out about me.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Drug dealer, breaking into houses, living in cars and there was something with kids when I was 17.</p> <p dir="ltr">“But they had not even one proof (sic) that I was involved with the McCann case. And they still don’t have it.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I know why. Because they have no hairs or anything from Maddie what means (sic) that nobody can put anything like that into my stuff to find it.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The idea behind that all perhaps was to make the BKA (German police) and German prosecutor famous as well known all over the world as the smartest organisation ever.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Brueckner is currently serving seven years for raping a 72-year-old woman, and is being probed over the 2004 rape of a second woman and sexual assault of a 10-year-old girl at Praia da Luz a month before Madeleine disappeared.</p> <p dir="ltr">In the letter, Brueckner suggests that authorities were leaking information about him to portray him in a poor light, according to the Daily Mail.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I know of about five open cases against me, all of them including raping and abusing,” he wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">“They have manipulated the truth in such an unprofessional way that I am laughing.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I still have not lost my sense of humour. Even in this critical situation. This is what keeps me alive.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Madeleine disappeared just a few days before her fourth birthday while holidaying with her parents, Kate and Garry.</p> <p dir="ltr">The couple marked what would have been her 18th birthday last year and said they still “hang on to hope” that they will see her again.</p> <p dir="ltr">“As we have said repeatedly, we need to know what has happened to our lovely daughter, no matter what. We are very grateful to the police for their continued efforts,” they said, per <em><a href="https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/world/madeleine-mccann-disappearance-christian-brueckner-breaks-his-silence-over-her-disappearance-in-letter-from-prison-cell/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NewsTalk ZB</a></em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We still receive so many positive words and good wishes despite the years that have gone by. It all helps and for that, we are truly grateful.”</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-485a5637-7fff-dc2d-c05b-937db23bd331"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Getty Images</em></p>

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Major development in Madeleine McCann case

<p dir="ltr">Long-time suspect Christian Brueckner has been declared a formal suspect over the disappearance of Madeleine McCann by Portuguese authorities.</p> <p dir="ltr">German newspaper Bild reported that Brueckner has been named as an “arguido” or “official suspect” by prosecutors, two years after he was first identified as a prime suspect by German authorities.</p> <p dir="ltr">The 44-year-old is currently serving a seven-year prison sentence in Germany for the 2005 rape of 72-year-old woman at the same Praia da Luz resort Madeleine disappeared from in 2007.</p> <p dir="ltr">Madeleine disappeared from the apartment her family was staying in on May 3, 2007, a few days before her fourth birthday.</p> <p dir="ltr">In a statement issued by the Faro Department of Criminal Investigation and Prosecution (DIAP), prosecutors confirmed Brueckner’s status as an official suspect on Wednesday, April 20.</p> <p dir="ltr">“As part of the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of Madeleine McCann in 2007, a person was made an arguido on Wednesday,” the Portiamo section of the DIAP said.</p> <p dir="ltr">It is understood the push to declare Brueckner as a suspect after it emerged he could potentially escape charges due to Portugal’s 15-year statute of limitations for serious crimes, per <em><a href="https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/real-life/news-life/christian-brueckner-named-official-suspect-over-madeleine-mccann-disappearance/news-story/ec54721b7de9059c54a1fa54659f6eec" target="_blank" rel="noopener">news.com.au</a></em> and the <em><a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10740813/Convicted-rapist-Christian-Brueckner-44-official-suspect-Madeleine-McCann-case.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Daily Mail</a></em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The legal grounds for making Brueckner an arguido include the fact that he allegedly confessed to a friend he had snatched Madeleine and mobile phone records placed him in Praia da Luz the night she vanished,” a “well-placed source” reportedly told the Daily Mail.</p> <p dir="ltr">“But it is obviously linked to the fact that the Portuguese authorities want to keep their options open with the 15-year deadline looming.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Brueckner’s lawyers told the publication he hadn’t been charged over Madeleine’s disappearance.</p> <p dir="ltr">The news comes several months after Brueckner claimed it would have been “absurd” for him to have abducted Madeleine via a string of letters broadcast on German TV.</p> <p dir="ltr">He wrote that he survived working as a drug dealer by following “a few key principles”, including “not abducting anyone”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Where possible, only driving during the day so that my battered ‘hippy bus’ didn’t attract attention, only driving on the roads I needed to and, most importantly, never provoking police,” he wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">“So that means not committing any crimes, certainly not abducting anyone.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Having said that, this was just as absurd to me at the time as starting a nuclear war or slaughtering a chicken.”</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-71b067d2-7fff-66aa-62f4-1cba4010a4dd"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

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Tributes flow for siblings named in suspected murder-suicide

<p dir="ltr">Tributes are flowing for two young siblings who died in a suspected double murder-suicide by their mother in Perth. </p> <p dir="ltr">​​Abiyah, 10, and Aiden Selvan, eight, were found dead in the back seat of a car at John Graham Reserve in Coogee, west of the city, on Monday morning.</p> <p dir="ltr">Their heartbroken father had left for the US on Sunday and arrived back home in Perth on Wednesday after hearing the devastating news. </p> <p dir="ltr">Principal Bill Innes of Providence Christian College and students at the children’s school remembered the siblings with messages and flowers.</p> <p dir="ltr">“You can never prepare for something like this,” Principal Innes told <a href="https://7news.com.au/news/wa/heartbreaking-tributes-flow-for-young-victims-abiyah-and-aiden-selvan-killed-in-suspected-coogee-murder-suicide-c-6081634" target="_blank" rel="noopener">7News</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We’re still numb, it’s still sinking in. To see those faces, it’s not easy.”</p> <p dir="ltr">A bulletin board was offered to the students to write their messages to Abiyah and Aiden. </p> <p dir="ltr">Abiyah was described as being the “brightest light of the world” from one of her fellow classmates.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Remember I always love you. It pains me to know I will never see you smile, touch you, laugh with you, and even wave to you,” another of her friends wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Your secrets! Don’t worry, I won’t tell anyone in honour of you. I will never forget you. See you in heaven,” another student wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">A message dedicated to Aiden simply read, “I will miss you.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Tsaparah Tabernacle, the church the family attended was in a “state of shock” when news spread of the suspected double murder-suicide.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We don’t have an understanding of what’s going on, we are puzzled and completely shocked at this stage,” a church spokesman told <a href="https://thewest.com.au/news/crime/coogee-car-fire-neighbours-reveal-details-of-mum-children-killed-in-suspected-murder-suicide--c-6065373" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The West Australian</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">The homicide investigation continues.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Nine News</em></p>

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Suspect named in missing campers arrest

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A man </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/man-arrested-over-missing-campers" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">arrested earlier this week</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> over the disappearance of Victorian campers Carol Clay and Russell Hill has been identified as Jetstar pilot Greg Lynn.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The 55-year-old from Caroline Springs, in Melbourne’s west, was arrested on Monday afternoon by special operations officers at a campsite near Arbuckle Junction, 166 kilometres east of Melbourne.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">No charges have been laid against him as he continues to be questioned by police.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Jetstar has confirmed that the pilot had been stood down following his arrest.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Jetstar has been advised by Victoria Police that one of its employees is under investigation for a serious crime and will work to assist in this due process in any way we can,” a spokesperson </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.9news.com.au/national/man-arrested-over-mysterious-disappearance-of-missing-victorian-campers-russell-hill-carol-clay/4f49420d-5d0d-41fc-8f8f-825086c6a3f7" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">said</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> in a statement.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“As a matter of course, the employee has been removed from duty as a result of their arrest.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Authorities have alleged that the dark blue Nissan Patrol they have been searching for - and have since seized - belongs to Mr Lynn.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7845854/car-lynn.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/57bd994d209c4e57a02c03c743a53008" /></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">A car has been seized in the investigation into Russell and Carol’s disappearance. Image: Nine</span></em></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Police allege Mr Lynn changed the colour of the seized vehicle to avoid being found by police, after they </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/huge-new-clue-in-search-for-missing-campers" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">released specific details</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> about the car’s colour, model, and time period it was made last week.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But, the trailer believed to be attached to the vehicle at the time of the disappearance is yet to be located.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Detectives from the Missing Persons Squad have arrested a man as part of the investigation into missing campers Russell Hill and Carol Clay,” police said in a statement.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“The investigation into the matter remains ongoing.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ms Clay’s sister Jill broke her silence following Mr Lynn’s arrest, saying she hoped his arrest would provide some answers.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Emotionally, it’s brought up everything during that time - a lot of grief and pain. We haven’t known how, we haven’t known why, they just vanished,” she told </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Nine News</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Now all of a sudden there’s a glimmer and we might get some answers.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“It would be such a relief to have those answers, to have a memorial for Carol and Russell.”</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Facebook</span></em></p>

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