Former reality TV star charged with murder after partner's body found
According to The Courier Mail, emergency services were called to the property in Port Lincoln, South Australia, on Thursday afternoon following reports of a small fire.
Upon arrival, first responders discovered a man's body in what has been described as a "grisly scene."
The identity of the 34-year-old reality TV star has not yet been revealed, but according to the publication, she was taken into custody and subsequently charged with murder.
The Courier Mail reported that she had previously appeared on the popular reality TV programme Beauty and the Geek, which aimed to pair a 'nerd' with a 'beauty'.
South Australia Police confirmed that the victim and the suspect were acquainted. The arrested woman declined bail and is currently being held in custody, reports the Mirror.
Major crime and forensic officers have travelled to Port Lincoln to assist local police with the investigation.
South Australia Police told The Mirror that at 3.25pm on Thursday, June 19, emergency services were called to the property following "reports of a small fire."
The statement read: "When police entered the property, they located a man deceased inside the premises. A 34-year-old Port Lincoln woman has been arrested at the scene and has been charged with the man's murder."
The statement continued: "She has been refused police bail and may appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court today. Detectives from Major Crime Investigation Branch and Forensic Response Section officers flew to the scene last night and are assisting local police with the investigation."
It further read: "Police believe both the man and woman are known to each other and there are no community safety concerns. Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au or call 1800 333 000. You can remain anonymous."
Upon learning of the tragic incident and the arrest that followed, a neighbour told Perth Now that the woman involved is "really nice, very pleasant, polite."
Ian Parrott from South Australia Police reassured the public by stating: "I can reassure members of the community that this is not a random incident."
He also mentioned: "We understand that the female who has been arrested and the deceased male both lived at this address."
It's understood that the couple had only recently started living together. The South Australia Police representative noted: "It is still very early stages of this investigation and it's likely that the Major Crime investigators and the forensic response members will be there most of today."
The cause of death remains undetermined. At the time the local media was briefed, the victim's family had yet to be informed, hence additional details about the investigation were withheld.
The accused is said to be detained under the Mental Health Act and has not applied for bail. A court hearing has been scheduled for December, which the suspect is expected to attend.
A suppression order has been issued, prohibiting the disclosure of the woman's identity, the victim, or any specifics about his death.
This order is reportedly due for a court review next week.
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