A significant letter uncovered at a residence in one of Perth's most prestigious suburbs has emerged as a pivotal element in the ongoing police investigation into the suspected double murder-suicide of a family of four. The bodies of Maiwenna Goasdoue, aged 49, her partner Jarrod Clune, 50, and their teenage sons Leon, 16, and Otis, 14, were discovered inside their Mosman Park property on Friday morning, sending shockwaves through the community.
Discovery of Disturbing Notes
A care provider for the boys, who are understood to have severe autism, raised the alarm at approximately 8.15am after arriving for a pre-arranged visit. The visitor initially found a note with instructions stating 'Don't enter' and a direction to contact emergency services. Subsequently, on Saturday, it was revealed that a second note, believed to be a more detailed letter, had been discovered, leading investigators to preliminary conclusions of a double murder-suicide.
Contents of the Letter
The letter reportedly contained specific details indicating a degree of planning behind the tragic act. According to sources, it included suggestions regarding how the family wished for their financial affairs to be managed following their deaths. Furthermore, the note provided insights into the family's mindset prior to the incident, appearing to suggest that the parents made a joint decision to end their lives. This documentation has become a focal point for understanding the circumstances leading up to the tragedy.
Family Background and Challenges
French-born Ms Goasdoue, known affectionately as 'Mai' to friends, had previously described her sons as disabled. As an active member of several online support groups, she openly shared that her sons' conditions were at the severe end of the autism spectrum. In a Facebook post, she commented, 'My two boys have that very severe level of autism. Still both very different,' highlighting the unique challenges each child presented.
Friends' Accounts of Isolation and Pressure
Close friend Nedra expressed being 'shocked and devastated' by the unimaginable tragedy, describing Mai and Jarrod as 'the most devoted, loving, protective parents' whose entire lives revolved around their sons. She revealed that the couple faced immense pressure, struggling to secure reliable care, particularly for one child requiring a high level of ongoing support. 'It was incredibly hard to find anyone who could look after the boys, especially one of them with the level of support he needed,' Nedra stated, emphasising that caregivers had to be as devoted as the parents themselves.
Nedra further explained that the pair often felt isolated and unsupported by friends, family, and various systems, including the NDIS, health services, and schools. 'No one can understand the endless fight to get the support and services they so desperately needed,' she said, noting that chronic sleep deprivation and challenging behaviours during school holidays likely contributed to their sense of having no other options.
Systemic Failures Highlighted
Another friend, who chose to remain anonymous, described the parents as a 'strong couple' who loved their children 'deeply and moved all the stones they could to ensure that they had the required supports and help.' However, they lamented, 'Unfortunately they were fighting a losing battle against a system which is not here to assist.' The friend clarified that this was not a domestic violence-related incident but rather a tragedy stemming from parents feeling 'beaten down by the system, so isolated, so fearful for the future of their children that they could see no other way out.'
Police Investigation Details
Detective Acting Inspector Jessica Securo addressed reporters on Friday, confirming that the deaths are being treated as a 'double murder-suicide.' She stated that no weapon was used during the incident and there is no known history of family violence connected to those involved. 'Although this investigation is in its infancy, police are investigating this matter as a double murder-suicide,' Inspector Securo said, adding that the bodies were found 'in different parts of the property' and assuring the public that 'there is no ongoing risk to the community.'
Community and Emergency Response
Inspector Securo described the incident as 'highly distressing' and acknowledged the teenage boys had 'significant health challenges.' She extended sympathies, stating, 'This is an incredibly tragic situation for the family, the person who discovered them, and our first responders.' St John WA confirmed that five ambulance crews were dispatched to the Mosman Park address at 8.29am. Western Australia Police remain at the scene, with several surrounding streets closed as forensic investigations continue.
Mosman Park, one of Perth's most expensive suburbs bordered by popular beaches such as Cottesloe, has been deeply affected by the tragedy. Neighbours were seen gathered outside the home on Friday, reflecting the community's shock. Authorities urge anyone affected by the incident to seek support through services like Lifeline on 13 11 14.
