WERRIBEE, VIC — A Filipino-Australian mother of four was found dead in the backyard of her Werribee home on Thursday morning, March 27, in a tragic domestic violence incident that has shocked the local community.
Czarina Gatbonton Tumaliuan, 42, was discovered with stab wounds just after 9:00 AM at her home on Retford Close, after reportedly returning from dropping her children at school. Emergency services were called to the property, but she could not be revived.
Her estranged husband, 41-year-old Jessie James Tumaliuan, was arrested at the scene and later charged with murder, according to ABC News and Herald Sun.
Police said the woman’s body was found in the backyard of her home. Mr Tumaliuan was taken into custody at the scene, reportedly covered in blood.
The couple’s four children attend Bethany Catholic Primary School, located just minutes away from their home. The timing and location of the incident have left many local parents and children visibly shaken.
Ms Tumaliuan described herself on social media as a “working mum, business woman, foodie and adventurer.” In one post, she called her children her “treasure, pride, joy and inspiration.” She was also known for running a small clothing and accessories business and was admired in the community for her warmth and resilience.
Jessie James Tumaliuan appeared in the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Friday, dressed in a white T-shirt. He sat calmly during the brief hearing and made no application for bail. He was formally charged with one count of murder.
Police told the court it would take up to 12 weeks to complete a pathologist’s report to confirm the cause of death. Detectives will also use this time to gather statements from Ms Tumaliuan’s family, many of whom reside overseas. The case is scheduled to return to court on July 31.
The initial discovery of the victim’s body prompted police to lock down the street. Neighbours described hearing sirens and seeing emergency services flood the area as the horrifying news spread.
This incident adds to the growing national concern around domestic violence. If you or someone you know needs help, contact 1800RESPECT at 1800 737 732 or Lifeline at 13 11 14.
