University offers support to academic whose daughter was killed at home

A university is offering support to an academic after his daughter was allegedly murdered by his wife on Queensland’s Gold Coast.

Dr Yun Wang called emergency services after finding his 10-year-old daughter Sophie unresponsive at their Emerald Lakes home in Carrara on Tuesday night.

Police are seen at a crime scene in Carrara on the Gold Coast.Credit: AAPIMAGE

Paramedics attempted to revive the girl, but she was declared dead at the scene.

The girl’s mother, 46-year-old Yingying Xu, was arrested at a nearby street and subsequently charged with murder.

The girl’s father is an associate professor in chemistry and forensic science at Griffith University, which is offering Dr Wang and his colleagues support.

“We are deeply saddened to hear about the tragic death of the daughter of a valued member of the Griffith community,” a university spokesperson said in a statement.

“Our thoughts are with the family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”

Police have described the crime scene as “incredibly confronting” for first responders.

“In my 15-year career as a detective, it’s one of the most confronting scenes that I have seen,” Detective Acting Inspector Kent Ellis said.

The Gold Coast community is grieving the death of the young girl, with her school offering counselling to students, staff and parents.

“Our prayers are with the family, friends, first responders and all affected by the loss of this beloved child in her home,” the school said in a statement.

“Our priority is supporting our community at this difficult time. We have mobilised our counselling and pastoral care teams to provide comprehensive support to students, staff and parents as our community comes to terms with this distressing news.”

Police have not ruled out Xu’s mental health being a consideration in the investigation. Her social media accounts, and recent TikTok posts, were being analysed.

Lifeline 13 11 14

beyondblue 1300 22 4636