In a tragic incident that has shocked the community, a 75-year-old woman has been charged with the murder of her 88-year-old roommate at the Bethanie Waters Aged Care Home in Port Kennedy, south of Perth.
Emergency services were called to the facility on Olivenza Crescent at approximately 4:10 am on Friday, 24 January 2025, after reports that an elderly resident had died.
Police later identified the victim as Lilian Catherine Donnelly and confirmed that she and the accused, Suzanne Margaret Lupica, had shared a unit at the aged care home for just four days prior to the incident.
Ms Lupica appeared via video link at Northbridge Magistrates Court on Sunday. She has been charged with one count of murder, though she did not apply for bail during the hearing. Her case has been adjourned until 19 February, with an opportunity to apply for bail in the coming days.
WA Police have suggested that the incident stemmed from a disagreement between the two women. Premier Roger Cook described the events as “very distressing” and extended condolences to the victim’s family.
“This is obviously a tragic situation for everyone involved,” Premier Cook said. “Our hearts go out to the victim’s loved ones during this difficult time.”
The Bethanie Waters Aged Care Home has expressed its sorrow over the incident, with Chief Executive Officer Roulé Jones issuing a statement to reassure residents and their families.
“The incident, which occurred on 24 January 2025, has deeply affected our community,” Ms Jones said. “Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and loved ones of the deceased.
“Our staff responded quickly and professionally when the alarm was raised and followed all Bethanie procedures. We wish to reassure the public that no Bethanie staff were involved in this incident. The safety, wellbeing, and care of our residents remain our highest priority.”
This is so sad. I have witnessed violence in nursing homes many times. Usually because of dementia. Often towards staff as well. It is no reflection on the facility. A tragic time for both families.
Residents should not be ‘sharing bedrooms’ with complete strangers, especially those living with dementia.
Agree where was the client assessment for behaviour. No excuse nursing home where was your duty of care
Once again Aged Care is “judged” and it sounds as though through no fault of the Service.
Prayers and thoughts to the families involved and the staff
Was the client assessment hap hazard? Why was a dementia patient moved into a shared room? Clearly all about cost cutting by the aged are facility. Perhaps this should be addressed. Surely this will come out in the trial. Sympathy to families of deceased.
I worked many agency medication shifts at this nursing home and it was a lovely place to work and the care for residents was brilliant . My sympathy goes to both families it is so sad