UPDATE: A 37-year-old man has been charged with murder following the discovery of a woman’s body at a residence in Kearsley, near Cessnock, on October 14, 2023. Authorities report that Christopher McLoughney was arrested at a sporting club’s car park in Bellbird around 6:45 PM on Saturday, shortly before he was charged.
The tragic incident unfolded after a child, distressed, walked approximately 300 to 400 metres from the home on Ellalong Street to flag down passing motorists on Friday evening. Police arrived at the location around 7:30 PM and found the body of 39-year-old Rhukaya Lake with a gunshot wound. McLoughney is allegedly connected to Lake, described as his partner, and the couple had been living together since June.
“This is a deeply saddening event,” said a neighbor, recounting the scene. “The mother had a lot of blood coming from her head.” Hunter Valley Police District Commander Superintendent Steve Laksa called it a “traumatic incident,” emphasizing the devastating impact on the community and family members.
During the manhunt for McLoughney, police warned the public that he may be armed. Upon his arrest, he was found in possession of a sawn-off shotgun. In addition to the murder charge, he faces two counts of possessing prohibited drugs and charges related to possessing a prohibited firearm and ammunition without a license. He was denied bail and is set to appear in Parramatta Local Court on Sunday.
Evidence was collected from the white weatherboard home on the outskirts of Cessnock, where police removed several bags of evidence. “It’s just devastating, really, for our community,” neighbor Michelle Antonio told reporters. “It’s very heartbreaking.”
The authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. This shocking event highlights the urgent need for increased awareness and support around domestic violence. For those in crisis, resources are available, including Lifeline at 13 11 14 and the National Domestic Family and Sexual Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).
As this story develops, community members and officials are left grappling with the aftermath of this tragic event. Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.
