A shocking incident has unfolded in Central Queensland, as a man faces charges of murder following the tragic deaths of his wife and their 11-week-old newborn in their Rockhampton home. The devastating discovery was made when law enforcement officers responded to a distress call at a residence on Park Avenue shortly before 11 am last Thursday.
The victims have been identified as 30-year-old Tayla Cox and her precious infant daughter, Murphy Margaret Cox. The husband, Matthew Cox, aged 31, had reportedly visited the Fortitude Valley police station in Brisbane, confessing to the presence of two deceased individuals at their Rockhampton home. Consequently, Cox has been arrested and charged with two counts of murder, specifically under the scope of domestic violence offenses.
The initial responders, led by Detective Inspector Darrin Shadlow, encountered a deeply distressing scene upon their arrival. While there were claims of firearm involvement, Shadlow confirmed that no such weapon was used in the alleged crime. Law enforcement authorities believe that the tragic incident transpired on Tuesday, a night prior to Cox’s departure from Rockhampton to Brisbane, ostensibly following the commission of the heinous acts.
An automobile associated with the suspect was apprehended by authorities at Rockhampton Airport and has undergone forensic examination. Notably, prior to this incident, Matthew Cox had not been on the radar of law enforcement agencies, and there existed no documented history of domestic violence. A comprehensive crime scene has been established at both the Rockhampton home and an apartment in Fortitude Valley, believed to be the suspect’s temporary residence.
Detective Inspector Shadlow expressed the devastation experienced by the victims’ family members, noting that Ms. Tayla Cox and her newborn were local residents and were well-known within the community. The couple had been residing in a modest yet promising three-bedroom home in Rockhampton. Social media activity from the deceased had highlighted their excitement upon acquiring the property, hinting at the dreams of a beautiful family life.
Tragic details have also emerged about the lives of the couple. Mr. Matthew Cox is identified as a television executive affiliated with Southern Cross Austereo, while Ms. Tayla Cox was on maternity leave. Their baby, Murphy Margaret, was born just this June. Neighbors of the family expressed their shock and disbelief, labeling the Cox family as a familiar, amiable presence within the community.
