Former RAAF pilot Robert Crawford to stand trial for wife's death

Robert Crawford, a former Royal Australian Air Force pilot, is scheduled to stand trial in the Supreme Court in Brisbane beginning Monday on charges of murdering his wife, Frances Crawford. The victim was discovered on July 30, 2024, at the couple's property in Upper Lockyer, near Toowoomba, near a ride-on lawnmower at the base of a retaining wall.

Crawford entered a not-guilty plea as the trial commenced. The Crown expects to call more than 40 witnesses, including several women alleged to have had romantic relationships with Crawford, as well as RAAF personnel, police investigators and medical experts. The proceedings are projected to last several weeks.

Queensland silk Saul Holt KC will represent Crawford, while Crown prosecutor Chris Cook is set to deliver the opening address after the jury is empanelled. Members of Frances Crawford's family attended the court on the first day of the trial.