‘We won’t stop’: Murdered mum’s family fight for justice

SHE was murdered with her toddler son nearby, her death staged like a suicide. But the killer of Pakenham mum Maddison Murphy-West is still yet to face justice, nearly half a decade later.

Maddison Murphy-West with her son, Noah, when he was a baby.

THE family of Melbourne mum Maddison Murphy-West say they will never give up hope of getting justice for her death.

This week marks four years since Ms Murphy-West was found dead at her Pakenham home with her toddler son Noah nearby.

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What was initially thought to be a suicide later became a homicide inquiry, with detectives believing she was murdered by a killer who then manipulated the crime scene inside the Aherns Rd property.

Her boyfriend Troy Boothey has previously been named as a suspect.

Maddison Murphy-West.

The ice addicted criminal is currently behind bars over unrelated violent crimes and will be up for parole in six months.

Maddy’s aunt, Kelly Anne Murphy, said she knew others were aware of what had happened to her niece but had not told police.

She said they had the potential to solve the case and it was time they came forward.

“There are people that know ... but they’re scared. They need to come forward. It doesn’t matter how small it is,” said Ms Murphy.

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Maddy’s uncle, Shannon Murphy, said the person responsible would never escape their actions.

“Whoever’s done it will be looking over their shoulder forever,” he said.

“We won’t stop. We know we will get justice.”

The anniversary of Maddy’s death and other occasions like her birthday and Mother’s Day were always tough for the family.

Maddy’s aunt Kelly-Anne Murphy, uncle Shannon Murphy and grandfather Gil Murphy come to her grave weekly. Picture: Jake Nowakowski

Noah, now aged 5, does not know what happened to his loving mum but is beginning to ask more questions.

His whole life he has been told “mummy is sleeping” but, on Mother’s Day, asked if she was dead.

The family had always imagined they would have answers for him by this point and are now grappling with how to share the heartbreaking news.

“He keeps saying he doesn’t understand why he can’t see her and asks why can’t we tell him what happened,” said Ms Murphy.

Homicide squad detectives are continuing to investigate Ms Murphy-West’s death. Anyone with information can call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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