Blake Seers, Ms Paterson's fiance and the child's father, with two counts of murder. The man continues to receive medical treatment in hospital and is due to appear via video link at Brisbane Magistrates Court on March 18.
Police were initially called to a traffic incident on Beaudesert Beenleigh Road at Bannockburn about 7.30am on March 12, following reports a man had been hit by a vehicle. Witnesses reported seeing a man covered in blood running along the footpath before he was struck by a black utility. There are some witness accounts that suggest he was running towards where he was hit by the car and already had some injuries to the neck area.
When officers went to the home to notify his family of the incident, they made a grim discovery. The bodies of Kate Paterson and her 11-month-old daughter April were found in a nearby Belivah home. Police have confirmed both mother and daughter had suffered stab wounds. Detectives believe Seers intentionally ran in front of the moving car after leaving the house.
Paterson was a teacher at Windaroo State School, who had just returned from maternity leave. Friends described her as a devoted educator who was excited to return to her classroom. The year 5 teacher was well-regarded in the Windaroo community, and her loss has devastated colleagues and parents at the school.
The community response has been immediate and heartfelt. The community came together as CCTV footage revealed the family walking with their stroller a day before police believe Kate and April were killed. In the footage, Kate is seen holding April in her arms while her partner walks beside them; a scene detectives say appeared like any normal family going about their day. Neighbours and friends gathered for a candlelight vigil to honour a mother and her young child, whose deaths had devastated colleagues, local school parents, and the community.
According to police, no domestic violence orders were in place involving the couple. Investigators are also examining the nature of Seers and Paterson's relationship and their living arrangements as part of the inquiry. Any issues like mental health will be examined in the fullness of the investigation.
Detective Superintendent Chris Ahearn said investigators remain eager to speak with Seers once his condition improves. Clearly we're anxious to speak with him so that we can get a fuller appraisal of the circumstances. The investigation is ongoing as forensic officers work to establish the full sequence of events.
A GoFundMe page set up by family friends described Paterson as a caring mother and daughter. The funds are being raised to assist with funeral costs for both victims and to support the Paterson family during this time of profound loss.