Pilot Robert Crawford arrested and charged over death of wife at Lockyer Valley property

Police have charged an air force pilot with murder after his wife’s body was found at the bottom of a retaining wall in an apparent accident with a ride-on mower.

Air force pilot Robert Crawford has been arrested and charged with murder over the death of his wife, whose body was found at the bottom of a retaining wall in an apparent accident with a ride-on mower.

Psychologist Frances Crawford was found dead at the couple’s Lockyer Valley home on July 30, with her husband calling emergency services at 3.30am to report the incident.

Detective Superintendent George Marchesini said Crawford had been charged with murder.

Crawford, 46, has also been charged with misconduct with a corpse by interfering. His case was briefly mentioned without his appearance in Ipswich Magistrates Court on Friday.

“On July 30, emergency crews were initially called to a property in the Lockyer Valley, a private property, and that was in regards to an incident involving as you know a ride-on lawnmower,” Supt Marchesini said.

“Frances was discovered deceased at that property at that time … at around 3.47am.”

Image of Frances Crawford supplied by her family.

Police alleged in court documents that Crawford murdered Frances on or about July 30 and then moved her body.

Crawford called triple-0 the same day and claimed Frances had been involved in a lawn mower incident.

Supt Marchesini read out a statement on behalf of Frances’ family and children.

“Frances Crawford will be remembered as a loving mother, beloved daughter, sister and friend and dedicated health professional and valued member of her church and community,” the message said.

“Her death has been devastating to us all, even more so given the circumstances. Frances’ passing will profoundly affect each of us for the rest of our lives but none more so than her three beautiful children.

Robert Crawford arrives at Ipswich Police Station. Picture: Nigel Hallett

“They are wonderful young adults who will continue Frances’ legacy. They have been dealt a very difficult blow indeed as they each embark on their own journeys.

“However with the support of family and good people around them they will not be defined by this or what has gone before.

“We are thankful that police have been relentless in their investigations in an effort to provide us answers and to seek justice for Frances.

“While today is a step forward, sadly nothing will bring Frances back to us. We know we still have a long and difficult road ahead, both in grieving Frances and processing what has occurred.

Qld police vision of Robert Crawford arrested at his home.

“We would like to thank the community and media for their ongoing support and assistance in appealing for information.

“As we process our loss and the unfolding events we respectfully request privacy during this very difficult time.”

A fund has been established to support Mrs Crawford’s three children.

Supt Marchesini said the charges followed an intensive investigation from detectives.

He said police were still continuing to appeal for information.

Mr Crawford was dressed in a T-shirt and shorts with handcuffs on as he was driven into Ipswich Watchhouse.

He briefly leaned forward in an attempt to hide his face from media.

Mr Crawford kept his eyes closed in the back seat, and as he was driven through the roller doors he smirked.

Police were called to the Lockyer Valley home after reports of an accident involving a ride-on mower. Picture: Queensland Police Service

His arrest came less than a week after police called for people who had come into contact with Mr Crawford to contact them, alleging he had been involved with women all over the world during his marriage.

“We believe there were women who were involved in relationships with Mr Crawford who may have information about Mrs Crawford that will assist with this investigation,” Detective Superintendent George Marchesini said.

“Mr Crawford may have met these women on dating applications, and through his personal and professional life.

“Investigations have revealed Mr Crawford has connected with women in Italy, United States of America, Papua New Guinea, Guam, Afghanistan, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Western Australia, Australian Capital Territory, Northern Territory, New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland.

Frances Crawford, 49, who was found at the bottom of a retainer wall at her Upper Lockyer property on July 30.

“The past few months have been extremely challenging for Frances’s family and her children, who are desperate for answers, and it’s time for those with information, no matter how small, to come forward.”

Mrs Crawford was a much-loved mother-of-three who worked as a psychologist at Quality Life Psychology Services in Toowoomba.

She was also involved with Toowoomba’s Restoration Church.

Mr Crawford is a squadron leader with the Royal Australian Air Force based at Amberley Air Base, near Ipswich.

He recently listed their home on AirBnB for up to $350 per night, describing it as a “peaceful” off-grid retreat.

The house had only been advertised online for a month, with the first of the six reviews posted in September.

Robert Crawford ducks forward to avoid the media after his arrest. Picture: Nigel Hallett

The listing received all five-star reviews, with guests describing Mr Crawford as a good host.

Mr Crawford’s host profile referenced the property as “our” house, and stated his most useless skill as juggling.

He also described himself as an amateur beekeeper who is obsessed with music and art.

“Hi there, our house (is) a short drive to Toowoomba, and beautifully positioned to relax and enjoy the peace and serenity of nature,” his bio said.

The listing was removed after The Courier-Mail published an article about it.

Crawford was represented by lawyer Andrew McGinness in Friday’s mention.

Mr McGinness requested a minimum two-week adjournment.

Acting Magistrate Sue Ganasan adjourned the case to October 25 for mention and excused his appearance.