Ben Coman charged with ex-partner Michelle Darragh’s murder

Ben Coman has appeared in court charged with one count of murder over the death of his ex-partner Michelle Darragh in his Bayswater North home.

Michelle Darragh with her er ex-partner, Ben Coman, who has been charged with her murder. Picture: Facebook

Homicide squad detectives have laid murder charges against the estranged partner of slain mum Michelle Darragh.

Ben Coman, 29, was on Tuesday charged over the killing of Ms Darragh in his Bayswater North home on Saturday October 9.

Ms Darragh had two young sons and was pregnant with a third child.

She was found dead inside Mr Coman’s Bayswater North home on October 9 by her worried father.

Mr Coman spent more than a week in hospital undergoing treatment for life threatening injuries sustained inside the home.

Michelle Darragh with her former partner Ben Coman. Picture: Facebook

Ben Coman, dialled into the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday afternoon from his bed at the Royal Melbourne Hospital.

The court heard a phone was being held to Mr Coman’s ear by a police officer during the brief administrative hearing.

Asked if he could hear the court, Mr Coman sounded dazed and answered “sorry?” before remaining silent for the rest of the hearing.

Mr Coman, who has been charged with one count of murder, is expected be transferred to a secure ward at St Vincent’s hospital in the coming days.

His lawyer, Jack Rabi, said it was his client’s first time in custody and his custody management issues will be tended to by staff on the St Augustine’s ward.

Prosecutors have asked for longer than usual to compile the brief of evidence.

Mr Coman made no application for bail.

The matter will return to court in March next year.