Jennifer Petelczyc : “Mark Bombara: Double Murderer and Gun Owner”

The tragic incident took place in Floreat, Perth, where a man shot dead a mother and daughter while searching for his ex-wife. The gunman then turned the gun on himself, resulting in a devastating loss of life. WA Premier Roger Cook has described the attack as “chilling and horrific.”

The victims have been identified as 59-year-old Jennifer Petelczyc and her 18-year-old daughter Gretl. Jennifer was a friend of the gunman’s ex-wife, and Gretl was a talented water polo champion.

Gun Laws in Western Australia

In response to the shooting, the WA government is taking steps to toughen its gun laws. A $64 million buyback scheme is underway, and legislative changes are being considered to restrict the number of firearms individuals can own.

Despite the existing gun laws, the shooter, identified as Mark Bombara, 63, was a registered gun owner with a collection of 13 legally obtained firearms. These firearms have since been seized by the police.

Community Reflection and Support

WA Premier Roger Cook has urged the community to reflect on the tragedy and stand together to condemn family and domestic violence. The incident has highlighted the need for more comprehensive measures to combat gendered violence.

Tributes continue to pour in for the victims at their home in Berkeley Cres and at Gretl’s former school, St Hilda’s Anglican School for Girls. The school has opened its chapel for those wishing to pay their respects to the victims.

Women’s Safety Advocacy

White Ribbon Australia, a women’s safety charity, has expressed outrage over the incident, stating that it is enraging to see violence used as a means to end a relationship. Chief Executive Melissa Perry emphasized that the victims were murdered for supporting a friend in need.

As investigations into the shooting continue, the community mourns the loss of Jennifer Petelczyc and Gretl, two innocent lives taken in a senseless act of violence.