Ethan Midgley, 23, has been charged with murder after allegedly shooting his partner Mallorie Roberts, also 23, with a homemade gun at their Biggera Waters home on Sunday night. Neighbours discovered Roberts and called emergency services, but she was declared dead at the scene. Midgley was arrested at the home and appeared in Southport Magistrates Court on Monday, charged with domestic violence, domestic violence murder, and possessing an unlawful weapon. He was denied bail.
Disturbing Accounts from Neighbours
Neighbours told 7NEWS they had heard arguments from the home for months, and police confirmed they had previously attended the property. No domestic violence order was in place. Roberts' son was not home at the time of the alleged murder and was with other family members.
Police Bodycam Footage
Police released body-worn camera footage showing officers confronting Midgley as he sat on a chair outside the front door before being handcuffed and led away. He was later seen in a blue forensic suit.
Tributes from Family and Friends
Roberts' mother, Felicity Jane, paid tribute, saying, "I love you, I want to hold you and not let you go, my beautiful sweetheart." Friends described Roberts as a "kind soul" and a "beautiful person." Courtney Martin said, "If anyone who needed help she would help them, she would give them the shirt of her back." Tiffany Swann added, "She was bright and bubbly with no filter."
Neighbours Describe Confronting Scene
Detective Acting Inspector Leia Urquhart said neighbours and first responders were met with a "confronting scene" and tried their best to save Roberts. Neighbour Tobie Trethewey said, "Before I opened the door I could hear a blood curdling scream." Another neighbour, Bianca Davis, ran into the home and attempted to help, saying, "She was just on the floor just lifeless and I tried to find where she was hurt and then I was applying pressure to her wound but she was already gone."
GoFundMe Campaign
A GoFundMe created by a family friend said, "Our hearts are shattered following the tragic loss of our beautiful Mallorie. Mallorie leaves behind her precious son, a loving sister and a family whose lives have been changed forever."
If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, phone 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) or the Crisis Care Helpline on 1800 199 008.
