Man charged with murdering wife in Melbourne nursing home

An 88-year-old man has been charged in Melbourne Magistrate’s court with murdering his elderly wife.

The man rested his head in his hands in court, and when asked if he understood what was happening, replied, “No, I’m so sorry but I don’t,” according to a report in the Herald Sun.

The man’s lawyer asked the magistrate if his client could see a doctor once remanded.

The report states an elderly couple sat watching the man throughout the hearing, and as he was being led into custody he offered them a small wave.

Earlier in the week, the body of a 87-year-old woman, believes to be the man’s wife, had been found at Martin Luther Home at The Basin in Melbourne’s east.

The man was arrested at the scene, and detectives were called to investigate the death.

Martin Luther Homes’ management issued a statement to residents, staff and the broader community, with their condolences, and confirmed it is cooperating with police and will help with enquiries.

“The sad passing of a woman who lived in our independent living retirement village today has saddened all our staff, residents and families,” the statement said.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to family and friends.”

The statement said the nursing home’s management won’t make any further comment

Martin Luther Homes is a not-for-profit nursing home and retirement village aligned with the Lutheran Church.

A neighbour of the home told the ABC he was shocked to learn of the death.

“Nothing ever happens around here, especially next door — it’s just so quiet,” he said.

The man will appear in court again on 22 August.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  1. ive worked in a nursing home and was bullied by the assistants. I reported pressure wounds left untreated and rough handling of elderly. Right from the start it was a toxic culture. Management don’t check whats going on. Man fell when I was asked to attend tea room. I asked two nurses to keep an eye on him while he sat on the toilet. He tried to get up and fell and I got blamed for it. I ended up leaving. The old man probably felt sorry for his wife. Needs to be a big royal commissiion and shake up.

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

Spirituality of caring for frail older people incorporated in new guide

A research-based guide from Meaningful Ageing Australia supporting aged care staff on ways to incorporate spirituality into care for frail older people launches this week. Ilsa Hampton, CEO of Meaningful Ageing Australia emphasises the importance of shaping language around the older person’s perceived identity. ‘It’s important to focus on the abilities of older people despite... Read More

Aged Care Skills and Workforce Planning: Government to Introduce New Committee

One of the biggest challenges in the aged care sector is creating a stable workforce that is adequate to manage Australia’s growing population. The workforce is the backbone of the aged care industry, and in order to create a better aged care system for the future, it is these staff that know best on what... Read More

Seniors and Families Across the Globe Are Knitting Pouches And Mittens For Injured Australian Wildlife

It is impossible to understate the devastating effects that bushfires have had on the Australian public and landscape. Hardworking, everyday Australians have lost their lives, families have lost their homes, and the scorched earth that was once home to some of the planets most unique wildlife has become an animal graveyard of unfathomable proportions. It... Read More
Advertisement