Mother Charged with Murder of 10-Year-Old Daughter in Australia

Australia shocked by mother's murder of 10-year-old daughter...

Yingying Xu charged with murder of 10-year-old daughter Sophie Wang in Gold Coast apartment, police investigate tragic incident with no ongoing public safety risk.

A 46-year-old woman, Yingying Xu, has been arrested and charged with murder following the death of her 10-year-old daughter, Sophie Wang, in a Gold Coast apartment on August 13.

Xu did not appear in court on August 14, as she had not applied for bail, when the charge was presented at the Southport Magistrates Court.

The lead investigator, Inspector Kent Ellis, described the scene as particularly distressing.

The girl's father contacted authorities after finding Sophie's body at their residence on Tuesday evening, prompting the investigation.

“It is with a heavy heart that I inform you of a tragic incident that occurred in a home within Emerald Lakes last night, resulting in the passing of one of our beloved students,” Brown said.

“We are devastated by this incident and know it will profoundly impact our school community.

“Our prayers go out to the family and friends of the child, and we extend our deepest condolences to all those affected by this tragedy.

“While words cannot ease the shock and pain of such a tragic loss, please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all.”

A crime scene remains in place outside the apartment, with police continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Sophie Wang's death.

A dedicated task force, Operation Whiskey Omega, has been established to oversee the investigation.

Inspector Ellis cautioned that forensic analysis may take some time to complete, but praised the investigative team for their thorough and efficient work despite the challenging circumstances.

“The scene was incredibly confronting. In my 15 years as a detective, it is one of the most confronting scenes I have seen.”

Inspector Ellis recognized the community's alarm and concern regarding the incident, but emphasized that police do not believe there is any continued risk to public safety at this time.