Forensic evidence presented in former pilot's murder trial reveals new details
In the second week of the Brisbane Supreme Court trial, prosecutors presented blood-stain analysis and other forensic findings that suggest the victim may have suffered a head injury before her death.
Blood-stain analysis and other forensic evidence were introduced in the murder trial of former RAAF pilot Robert Crawford, who has pleaded not guilty to the killing of his wife, psychologist Frances Crawford, found dead at their Upper Lockyer home on July 30, 2024.
Crown prosecutor Chris Cook argued that Crawford killed his wife and then attempted to stage the scene as a lawn-mower accident. Forensic scientist Sergeant Owen Esaias testified that blood splatter on a rock retaining wall was consistent with Ms Crawford hitting her head, though he said it was also possible she fell onto the wall after sustaining an injury. He added that a bath-mat in the main bathroom contained blood, describing the most plausible explanation as vertical drip stains, while acknowledging that other scenarios could not be entirely excluded.
Senior Constable Matthew Fender described the condition of the body when it was discovered, noting that a piece of grass was found between the victim’s big toe and second toe despite her wearing socks. Photographs showed the body in socks, pyjamas and a single Ugg boot, with the other boot located nearby. During cross-examination, defence counsel Saul Holt KC questioned the handling of the scene, including the lack of detailed measurements, markings, and the decision not to seize the grass for further analysis.
The defence also raised concerns about the absence of fingerprint collection at the scene, with Constable Fender acknowledging that fingerprints could have been taken but stating that no suggestion had been made that the scene might have been staged.