Man Charged with Double Murder After Partner and Infant Daughter Found Deceased
Police have charged a 38-year-old man with two counts of domestic violence-related murder after his partner, 37-year-old Kate Paterson, and their 11-month-old daughter, April, were found deceased in their Belivah, Logan home on Thursday, March 14. The charges against Blake Seers were laid after he was hospitalized following being struck by a vehicle near the residence, an incident police believe he intentionally caused.
Seers has a diagnosed schizoaffective disorder, according to his defense lawyer.
Tragic Discovery in Belivah
On the morning of Thursday, March 14, police discovered the bodies of Kate Paterson, a Year 5 teacher, and her daughter, April, inside their home in Belivah, a suburb south of Brisbane. Both individuals sustained wounds consistent with a bladed weapon.
Police had attended the residence to notify Seers' family after Seers was struck by a vehicle a few blocks away. Authorities allege that Seers fled the home, having sustained a neck injury prior to being hit by the vehicle. Traces of blood were reportedly found leading from the home.
Witnesses observed a man covered in blood on a footpath before he was struck by a black ute on Loganlea Road, near a local supermarket. Investigators believe Seers intentionally moved into the path of the vehicle.
Legal Proceedings Underway
Seers was transported to Princess Alexandra Hospital in serious condition, where he remains hospitalized under police guard. After regaining consciousness several days later, he was charged on Tuesday, March 19, with two counts of domestic violence-related murder, including one count related to a domestic violence offense against a child.
Seers appeared via video link in Brisbane Magistrates Court on Wednesday, March 20. His defense lawyer, Nicholas Andrews, confirmed that Seers has a diagnosed schizoaffective disorder and would require a mental health assessment upon transfer to a remand centre. The matter was subsequently adjourned to the following week.
Police stated that no domestic violence orders were in place involving the couple.
Community Mourns Beloved Teacher and Daughter
CCTV footage from the day prior to the incident showed the family walking together with a stroller. Neighbors reported seeing the family, noting they appeared happy. Kate Paterson had recently returned to teaching at Windaroo State School after maternity leave.
The deaths have prompted a significant community response. Approximately 200 individuals attended a candlelight vigil on Boliva Road, Logan, last Friday, bringing candles and flowers, observing a minute of silence, and listening to a song. Floral tributes and handwritten messages have been placed outside the family's home and Windaroo State School. Parents at the school reported that younger students have expressed difficulty understanding the absence of their teacher.
The investigation into the deaths remains ongoing.