A pilot, identified as Robert Crawford, has been accused of the alleged murder of his wife, Frances Elizabeth Crawford, in what is described as a calculated act. According to the prosecution, he supposedly strangled her at their rural home in Upper Lockyer, near Brisbane, on July 30, 2024. Following the incident, Robert reportedly faked a lawnmower accident to conceal his actions.
In court, Robert sought bail, arguing through his defence attorney, Saul Holt, that the prosecution’s case lacked solid evidence. Holt claimed there was insufficient proof to substantiate allegations that Robert acted in a “murderous rage” when he allegedly killed Frances.
Crown prosecutor Chris Cook outlined the prosecution’s theory: Frances was strangled in her ensuite bathroom. Evidence, including blood samples from both the victim and Robert, indicates a violent struggle. Cook argued that she was conscious and actively resisting her assailant, contradicting claims that her injuries were sustained during a lawnmower accident, as forensic findings suggested asphyxiation was more probable.
Cook painted Robert as a “master manipulator,” alleging that he had previously coerced Frances into seeking police protection due to feelings of insecurity in their relationship. Statements from acquaintances purportedly describe Robert as skilled at portraying himself as a victim, despite the gravity of the situation.
The court was presented with text messages exchanged between the couple that evening. One message from Frances asked if Robert intended to put away the lawnmower soon. Prosecutor Cook argued that Robert could have sent messages from Frances’s phone after committing the alleged crime, leaving him with time to arrange the scene before contacting emergency services hours later, at approximately 3:37 AM.
This timeline raised doubts about the plausibility of Frances going outside to handle the lawnmower in the middle of the night without adequate clothing, as noted by Cook.
Holt argued for Robert’s release on bail, presenting a $250,000 surety and offering to wear a GPS tracker as conditions of his release. He claimed that Robert was committed to defending himself, emphasizing his clean criminal history.
Justice Frances Williams has acknowledged the bail application and will deliver the decision at a later date. This high-profile case highlights the complexities of domestic violence and the legal processes surrounding such allegations.
Support services for domestic violence can be accessed through the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).