'No words to explain': Heartbroken sister's tribute to family killed in massacre
The sister of a Perth woman who died along with her mother and children has released a heartbreaking statement saying there were “no words to explain” the alleged family massacre.
The bodies of 41-year-old Mara Lee Harvey, her three-year-old daughter Charlotte, two-year-old twins Alice and Beatrix, and their grandmother Beverley Ann Quinn, 73, were found at a Bedford home, in Perth’s inner northeast, on Sunday.
Taryn – who is the daughter of Beverley, sister of Mara and aunt to Charlotte, Alice and Beatrix – said the world was a “much sadder place without them”.
“We would firstly like to thank everyone for their help, support and kind wishes during this extremely dark and difficult time,” the statement reads.
“There are no words to explain the emptiness and loss that we are feeling.
“Beverley was a kind-hearted, caring mother and grandmother and was always there for her family.
“She was very much family-orientated, and she loved her daughters and grandchildren, and would have done anything for them.
“Mara loved being a mum and she loved her girls. She was so proud of each of them and was doing a great job of raising them. Her girls were her world.
“Charlotte was an energetic, bubbly, confident little girl who loved people and loved socialising.
“Alice was outgoing, adventurous and cheeky, while Beatrix was at times a little bit more quiet but gave the biggest hugs.
“This world is a sadder place with the loss of these five beautiful people, but heaven has gained five new angels.”
Anthony Robert Harvey, 24, appeared in Perth Magistrates Court on Monday via video link from Karratha courthouse accused of killing his partner and children on September 3, six days before their bodies were discovered.
Police allege he killed Ms Quinn the next day when she arrived at the house.
Western Australia Police Commissioner Chris Dawson told reporters several weapons were used, including a blunt instrument and knives, but no guns.
The women were allegedly attacked in the kitchen, while the children were killed elsewhere in the house.
Police also allege Harvey remained at the house for some days, then travelled north.
A bouquet of red roses with a card saying “rest in peace, neighbours” has been placed against a light pole near the house.
According to her Facebook page, Ms Harvey became engaged in August 2014 and had her first child in March 2015.
For anyone who is seeking help, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or beyondblue 1300 22 4636.
