Queensland Police are investigating a suspected murder-suicide following the tragic discovery of a mother and her young daughter inside a luxury short-term rental property in Kenmore Hills, Brisbane. The bodies of 54-year-old former anaesthetist Dr. Tiffany Wilkes and her eight-year-old daughter, Clementine, were found on Monday, shocking both the local community and the wider public. Authorities have confirmed the child is the 19th Australian child to die in violent circumstances this year.
The grim discovery was made after Wilkes reportedly sent a disturbing email to former colleagues, prompting them to alert authorities. Officers responding to the welfare check forced entry into the Tinara Crescent rental home, where they found both victims deceased. Police confirmed on Tuesday that the case is being treated as a murder-suicide, though investigators continue to examine the timeline of events leading up to the deaths.
Footage from the property’s CCTV system captured Wilkes on Sunday evening, the last time she was seen alive, wheeling a rubbish bin to the kerb outside the Airbnb. Neighbours later told detectives they had not seen Wilkes or her daughter at their Norman Park residence for more than 18 months. During that period, police believe the pair had been living between hotels and other short-term rentals, following Wilkes’ departure from her role at Princess Alexandra Hospital.
The shocking deaths have sparked conversations about isolation, hidden struggles, and the vulnerability of families experiencing upheaval. Police said the crime scene has now been closed, but the investigation remains ongoing as officers appeal for information and CCTV footage from the area to assist with their inquiries.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli expressed his condolences, describing the case as devastating. “[It’s] distressing for everyone, including the first responders who had to see something that no one should ever have to,” he said. Mental health experts have since urged families to reach out for help when experiencing difficulties, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and support.
The heartbreaking incident has drawn national attention to the rising number of children lost to violence in Australia this year. Advocacy groups have renewed calls for stronger protective systems for vulnerable families and children. Support services such as Lifeline, Beyond Blue, Suicide Call Back Service, and Kids Helpline are available to assist those in crisis.