RAAF pilot on trial for wife's death discussed marital problems with wing commander

A Supreme Court trial in Queensland is examining the relationship between former Royal Australian Air Force pilot Robert Crawford and his wife, Frances, whose body was discovered at the bottom of a retaining wall on their rural property in 2024. Prosecutors allege Crawford murdered Frances to prevent a costly divorce, while his defence maintains the death was an accident involving a ride-on mower.

Wing Commander Mark Seery, who has known Crawford since 2018, testified that Crawford had spoken to him several times about marital strain. Seery said Crawford mentioned his wife's new medication and that they had moved out of and back into the family home. In a February 2 message shown to the jury, Crawford wrote that a recent counselling session had gone better than expected and that he was planning to return to the Toowoomba house in March.

Seery also recalled a message after a work trip in May-June 2024, in which Crawford thanked him and said the trip was "good for me to get away" and that he felt happy when at work. The wing commander confirmed Crawford later requested additional days off to spend more time at home.

Forensic pathologist Andrzej Kedziora described extensive head injuries and facial bleeding on Frances, noting that some injuries were consistent with strangulation and that a scenario involving a mower being dropped on her chin was difficult to reconcile. The jury has also seen graphic photographs of the injuries.

Crawford's barrister, Saul Holt KC, questioned Detective Sergeant Troy Weston about the investigation of the property’s water system, suggesting gaps in the police inquiry. Weston responded that only a visual inspection of the sprinkler system had been performed.

The trial continues, with further forensic evidence expected later in the week.