The mother of a two-year-old boy killed by his father in a suspected murder-suicide says she is enduring “incomprehensible grief” after her child’s life was ended “by an evil and cowardly act of violence”.
Rowan and his father, 38-year-old James Harrison, were found dead inside a Lismore East Unit on Sunday night by police who had been called when the child was not returned from a planned access visit.
“Rowan’s life was ended by an evil and cowardly act of violence, perpetrated by a person he should have been able to trust the most,” his mother Dr Sophie Roome said in a joint statement with family.
“There are no possible excuses for this hurt and no end to the pain it has caused. We are devastated.
“We will love and miss Rowan forever.”
The toddler was described as “beautiful, joyful and adored” and a little boy who loved music, the beach, friends and family.
“He had so many amazing qualities and his short life was filled with rich and happy experiences,” the statement read.
“He touched the hearts of everyone lucky enough to be in his world.”
The family thanked those who had reached out to support them.
NSW Health worker praises killer dad in staff email
Meanwhile NSW Health Minister Ryan Park has distanced the service from an executive employee who labelled killer dad Harrison a “wonderful colleague” in an all-staff email accessed by The Daily Telegraph, just days after the deaths.
“This email was completely unacceptable and has caused significant distress to staff,” Park said.
“I want to make clear that it does not reflect the views of NSW Health and that it was not in any way endorsed or authorised by Health.
“This is an extremely difficult time for local health staff, and I want to reiterate that support is being made available to them.”
Harrison was subject to an apprehended domestic violence order taken out by the boy’s mother.
That 12-month protection order was still in place when NSW Police officers forced entry into the Lismore East unit and found the bodies of Harrison and his son on Sunday.
The ADVO ruled Harrison must neither assault, threaten, stalk or harass Roome, or anyone she has a domestic relationship with, nor intentionally or recklessly destroy or damage any property or harm an animal that belongs to her.
The penalty for breaching an ADVO is two years in jail or a fine of $5500.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au.
In an emergency, call 000.
If you need help in a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. For further information about depression contact beyondblue on 1300224636 or talk to your GP, local health professional or someone you trust.