Australia woman, 32, allegedly murdered son, 4, & engaged in cannibalism

A 32-year-old woman, who allegedly murdered her four-year-old son, is being investigated to determine if cannibalism had a role to play in his death in Wyong, New South Wales, Australia.

The 32-year-old woman was charged with domestic violence murder and refused bail, ABC News and 9News reported.

Claims

This comes after the woman voluntarily went to the Wyong police station at about 4:40pm on Jul. 4.

According to local police, she allegedly made claims that “formed genuine concerns”, triggering a welfare check by local police.

Officers subsequently found the four-year-old’s remains in a home in Wyong.

The body was found alone with significant arm injuries.

Responding emergency personnel were reportedly heavily impacted by what they witnessed at the scene.

Support was being offered to the responders.

Cannibalism

Part of the investigation is to look at alleged references to cannibalism made by the woman when she went down to the police station.

Local police obtained a court order to forensically examine her mouth to get samples of the woman's internal mouth contents and forensic material, as well as a buccal swab.

Samples of the woman's nails and material from under her nails were also obtained.

The woman’s vehicle and a “number of exhibits” were seized.

According to Kate Washington, New South Wales Families Minister, the Department of Communities and Justice had also dealt with reports regarding the boy.

The last contact that staff had with the family was about 18 months ago.

Investigations are ongoing.

Community

According to local police, the mother and son lived together in the home. The boy had reportedly just started kindergarten.

About 40 people turned up for a vigil held for the boy on the afternoon of Jul. 6. They prayed and left floral tributes and toys.

The vigil's organiser said she apparently grew up on the street next to where the boy and his mother had lived.

She organised the event to bring the community together.

Locals were encouraged to bring flowers and teddy bears for a makeshift memorial.

"As a mother and as speaking for every other member in the community, I know for a fact that this has absolutely shattered a lot of people," she said.

"Rest in peace, beautiful boy. You've left a mark on every single member of this community."