The woman allegedly “tragically” killed by her husband in a Sunshine Coast resort on Valentine’s Day was “covered in blood” when her body was found by staff on the bed, police say.
Details of the reported attack come as the victim was identified as Vanessa Godfrey, 46, from Burpengary.
The grandmother was found dead inside a Pelican Waters resort room about 3.35pm on Monday after a staff member went to the room for a welfare check.
Her husband Jeffrey James Godfrey, 50 from Bli Bli, has been charged with her domestic violence murder.
Queensland police said the pair were stayingxjmtzyw at the resort for a social function over the weekend and that Mr Godfrey was found unconscious in the room when his wife’s body was discovered on the bed.
He had received minor injuries and assisted police with inquiries.
Detective Inspector Dave Drinnen told reporters it would have been “very horrific” for the staff members that saw the alleged murder scene.
“It was physically obvious she was deceased, she was covered in blood and there were some wounds on her arms,” he said.
“We suspect there was some sort of weapon used to make those wounds.
“It was very horrific for the staff.
“We have a very unfortunate and very tragic incident in which there is a female deceased with blood, not knowing what what’s happened.”
A forensic examination and autopsy were yet to be completed to help detectives understand the cause of death.
Inspector Drinnen said there were numerous people who officers would speak to so they could piece together what happened in the lead up to the death.
“We will look at both parties’ family dynamics, what the situation is, but it’s all part of the investigation that we are still working on and pulling together.
“We have a woman who has lost her life, we have a male person who is now being charged in relation to a murder.
“There‘s going to be a lot of mourning. There needs to be support built around all family members in relation to this. It’s just another tragic loss of life.”
NED-5524 Valentine's Day Murder
A lawyer for Mr Godfrey addressed the Maroochydore Magistrates Court on Tuesday for a brief hearing and did not apply for his client’s bail.
The defendant will remain in custody until his next appearance in early May.
His wife was living at a separate address despite being legally married to her accused killer.
The pair reportedly have children and at least one grandchild together.
