Former RAAF pilot stands trial for wife's death at rural property
Former RAAF pilot Robert John Crawford is on trial for murdering his wife Frances in July 2024.
Crawford, 49, pleaded not guilty to murdering Frances Elizabeth Crawford at Upper Lockyer on 29 July 2024. Frances Elizabeth Crawford's body was found near a ride-on lawnmower at the bottom of a retaining wall on their rural property west of Toowoomba.
The prosecution alleges Crawford killed his wife during a marriage breakdown. Crawford then staged her death to look like an accident.
Prosecutors say he was motivated by financial gain, wanting to keep the house and avoid splitting his retirement savings. The trial will hear from up to 47 witnesses over three weeks.
This includes four women with whom Crawford allegedly had affairs. A judge will take the jury to the property on Wednesday to help them understand the evidence.
- 49 years old
- Accused's age
- 29 July 2024
- Death date
- Upper Lockyer, west of Toowoomba
- Location
- Up to 47 over three weeks
- Trial witnesses
Why it mattersThe trial will determine whether Crawford killed his wife or whether the death was the accident it appeared to be.
AustraliaThe high-profile trial is being heard in Brisbane Supreme Court and will be closely watched in Queensland legal and community circles.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 1 h ago
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