By Perry Duffin and Olivia Ireland
A man has been charged with murder after mother-of-four Drew Douglas was stabbed to death at a home in Sydney’s West.
Police are investigating a rambling phone call they allegedly received from Shaun King, 35, nearly 10 hours before his partner, Douglas, was killed, sources close to the investigation say.
Drew Douglas was stabbed to death at a house in St Marys.Credit: Facebook/TNV
King rang police about 8.40pm on Tuesday rambling incoherently, a police source not authorised to speak publicly confirmed, but the call did not contain any threats against Douglas.
The call sparked a “concern for welfare” listing, where police log and check up on people in the community who could be at risk of harm by themselves or others.
Shaun King, 35, has been arrested in relation to the stabbing.Credit: Facebook
Douglas, aged in her 30s, was stabbed in the chest at a St Marys home about 6.45am on Wednesday. She was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics but died at the scene.
However, local police had failed to check on King following his earlier alleged phone call.
A short time later, King presented himself to Campbelltown police station where he was later arrested.
Police charged King with one count of murder on Wednesday night and has been refused bail. He will appear in Campbelltown Local Court on Thursday morning.
“In terms of responding to that call last night, the circumstances surrounding why there was no attendance and the timeline from last night through to this morning is part of the critical incident investigation,” Assistant Commissioner Leanne McCusker said. “That timeline leading into this morning will certainly be very, very strongly looked at.”
McCusker said there was a history of domestic violence known to police.
A critical incident investigation has been launched following the stabbing in St Marys.Credit: TNV
“Certainly, there is history of police involvement with these two people,” she said.
Douglas’ sister Jade posted on social media about the loss.
“I love you sissy,” she wrote.
“I’m broken, shattered and numb. My family does not deserve this. My sister didn’t deserve this.”
The Herald can confirm other adults were inside the home on Edmondson Avenue at the time of the killing. Police sources say one is believed to be King’s mother, whom he lives with.
The homicide squad is investigating the stabbing, while a critical incident team from nearby Ryde police area command will investigate the police response to King’s call.
Police sources say, as yet, it appeared there were no apprehended violence orders, so there was no immediate concern for Douglas’ welfare following the calls.
Investigations are continuing. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
The Morning Edition newsletter is our guide to the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up here.