The devastated family of a mother-of-three allegedly murdered by her RAAF pilot husband have made a global appeal for information ahead of her arrest.
Robert Crawford, 47, allegedly killed his wife Frances, 39, and moved her body to stage it as a lawnmower accident at their rural property in Upper Lockyer, southeast Queensland, at 3.40am on July 30.
He was arrested on Thursday after police made a public appeal last week for people to come forward as they revealed he had allegedly been messaging women on dating apps around the world and in Australia.
Police will allege he connected with women in countries including the United States, Italy, Papua New Guinea, Afghanistan, Guam, Japan, New Zealand and all Australian states and territories except South Australia and Tasmania.
Since the announcement, Ms Crawford’s relatives – including some in New Zealand and the Netherlands, where her parents are from – have made calls online for people to contact police.
‘At the request of the family, please share!’ wrote a cousin in the Netherlands.
“The more it is shared, the greater its reach: information or advice is sought internationally!”
Another family member who shared the appeal wrote: “If anyone knows anything about this please contact Queensland Police.”
Frances Crawford was found dead at her Upper Lockyer property in the early hours of July 30.
Robert Crawford (pictured) has been charged over her alleged murder.
‘Frances is my uncle’s sister and the family is really suffering now.
“Your love and support would be appreciated.”
Shortly after Crawford’s arrest, Queensland Police said people had approached detectives in recent days and thanked them for their “bravery”.
In recent days, several family members and friends have also paid tribute to Ms Crawford by using a photo of her as their Facebook profile picture.
In the comments section of some of the posts, Ms Crawford’s mother wrote: “Our beautiful girl.”
Footage released by police on Thursday shows detectives speaking to a barefoot Crawford, wearing a T-shirt and shorts, at his home and arresting him before being escorted to a police car.
He was later captured being driven to Ipswich Watchhouse, where he leaned forward to try to hide his face from the cameras.
Police will allege Crawford had connected with other women in Australia and overseas.
His matter was heard before acting magistrate Sue Ganasan at Ipswich Magistrates Court on Friday, where his lawyer Andrew McGinness asked for the case to be adjourned for two weeks.
Crawford, charged with one count each of murder (domestic violence offense) and misconduct with a dead body by interfering, failed to appear in court and did not apply for bail.
Outside court, McGinness did not answer any questions from reporters.
The Australian Defense Force declined to comment and referred all queries to Queensland Police.
Mrs Crawford was a beloved local psychologist, while her husband was a RAAF Squadron Leader, operating from the Royal Australian Air Force base at Amberley, about 8 kilometers south-west of Ipswich.
Last month, Crawford listed the “peaceful off-grid family home” for rent on Airbnb for $350 a night.
The list did not mention the July tragedy and announced a serene retirement.
“Our house is just a short drive from Toowoomba and is very well situated to relax and enjoy the peace and serenity of nature,” he added.
The listing was removed after media publicity.
Crawford was charged with one count of murder (crime of domestic violence) and misconduct with a dead body by interfering
He is pictured being escorted from his home in Queensland on Thursday.
Mrs. Crawford has been remembered as a loving mother, daughter, sister and friend, and a valued member of her community.
Following news of Crawford’s arrest, his grieving family released a statement, describing the “very difficult blow” their children have had to face.
“Frances Crawford will be remembered as a loving mother, a beloved daughter, a sister and friend, a dedicated healthcare professional, and a valued member of her church and community,” the statement read.
‘His death has been devastating for all of us, even more so given the circumstances.
The passing of ‘Frances’ will deeply affect each of us for the rest of our lives, but none more so than her three beautiful children. They are wonderful young adults who will continue Frances’ legacy.
“They have indeed been dealt a very difficult blow as they each embark on their own journey; however, with the support of their family and the good people around them, they will not be defined by this or what has happened before.” “.
The family thanked the police, their community and the media, but said they will now focus on “seeking justice for Frances.”
‘Although today is a step forward, sadly nothing will bring Frances back to us. “We know we still have a long and difficult road ahead of us, both in mourning Frances and in processing what happened,” the statement continued.
“As we process our loss and the unfolding events, we respectfully request privacy during this very difficult time.”
Crawford’s matter is due to appear at Ipswich Magistrates’ Court on October 25.
