Woman, 66, found in home with two dead kids
The woman has been taken in custody over the deaths of two children, aged six and seven.
A 66-year-old woman is in custody over the deaths of two children in a rural NSW town.
Police attended a home in Coonabarabran, in the state’s central west, about 2pm on Monday following reports of a “concern for welfare”.
When police arrived at the home on Emu Lane, they found two children – aged 6 and 7 – both deceased inside
A woman, believed to be their grandmother, was also inside the house when police arrived.
She was arrested at the scene and taken to hospital for further assessment. She remains under hospital guard.
Police previously said she was assisting with inquiries. She has not been charged with an offence at this stage.
“A crime scene has been established,” NSW Police said in a statement.
“There is no ongoing threat to the community. Police are not looking for anyone else.
“Officers from Orana Mid-Western Police District are now investigating the circumstances of the deaths under Strike Force Darnum assisted by detectives from State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad.”
NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb described it as a horrific tragedy and said detectives from the homicide squad were travelling to the town from Sydney.
“Our hearts go out to the family of these boys, and to the entire community who will be devastated by what has happened today,” she said.
The small town of Coonabarabran has a population of about 2400 people.
NSW Premier Chris Minns has addressed the incident.
“What has occurred is terrible and as a state we share in the community of Coonabarabran’s grief at the loss of two young boys who had their entire futures ahead of them,” he said.
“I cannot begin to imagine the heartbreak their loved ones are currently feeling, including their family, friends, and teachers.
“I thank the local officers who attended the scene for their professionalism and bravery in the face of such a horrible event.”
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