Lilie James Death, a Sydney resident and water polo coach at St Andrew’s Cathedral School, was one of the victims who was murdered on October 25, 2023. The murder, which occurred at her workplace, involved a former student of the school who was allegedly obsessed with her. The murder also injured her colleague, Paul Thijssen, who survived the attack. The motive behind the murder is still under investigation by the Sydney Police Department.
Who was Lilie James?
Lilie James was a kind, generous, funny, and loyal person who dedicated her life to teaching and coaching water polo to young students. She was born in Kogarah, a suburb in the southern region of Sydney, and graduated from Farmington College. She was an expert in water polo and worked as a coach at St Andrew’s Cathedral School, a prestigious school in the CBD. She was also the co-founder of Chicago Street Medicine, a volunteer organization that provides medical care to the homeless population.
According to her social media profiles, Lilie James loved nature, animals, music, and sports. She often shared photos and videos of her adventures with her family and friends. She also expressed her opinions on various topics and showed her support for various causes.
Lilie James was described by those who knew her as a kind, generous, funny, and loyal person. She was always ready to help others and make them smile. She touched many lives with her positive attitude and warm personality.
Lilie James Death: Sydney CBD school named as water polo coach Lilie James
How did Lilie James Death?
Lilie James died in a brutal murder that occurred on October 25, 2023, at St Andrew’s Cathedral School in Sydney. According to the Sydney Police Department, the murder was committed by a 19-year-old man who was a former student of the school and had a history of stalking and harassing Lilie James. The man entered the school premises around 11:30 p.m. and attacked Lilie James and Paul Thijssen, the head hockey coach of the school, who were working late in the gymnasium. The man stabbed Lilie James multiple times in the chest and head with a knife and hit Paul Thijssen with a metal pipe. The man then fled the scene and left a note confessing his crime and expressing his love for Lilie James.
Lilie James and Paul Thijssen were found by a security guard who alerted the police and paramedics. Lilie James was pronounced dead at the scene due to severe blood loss and trauma. Paul Thijssen was taken to the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital with serious injuries but survived the attack.
The police identified the suspect through CCTV footage and witness statements and arrested him at his home in Vaucluse on October 26, 2023. He was charged with murder, attempted murder, aggravated break and enter, and stalking. He is currently awaiting trial.
How did the Sydney community react to Lilie James’s death?
The news of Lilie James’s death shocked and saddened the Sydney community, where she was well-known and respected. Many people took to social media platforms to express their grief and condolences to her family. They also shared their memories and tributes of Lilie James, highlighting her achievements, passions, and personality.
Some of the messages that were posted online are:
- “Rest in peace Lilie James. You were a great friend and coach. You will be missed by many.”
- “I am heartbroken to hear about Lilie James’s passing. She was such a nice girl and always had a smile on her face. She loved her family and friends so much. My thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones.”
- “Lilie James was one of the best people I ever met. She was always there for me when I needed her. She had a great sense of humor and a big heart. I will never forget her.”
The Sydney community also organized a candlelight vigil for Lilie James on October 27, 2023, at St Andrew’s Cathedral School playground. Hundreds of people attended the event to honor her life and legacy.
Lilie James Death: Sydney CBD school named as water polo coach Lilie James
FAQ
Q: When is Lilie James’s funeral?
A: Lilie James’s funeral service will be held on October 29, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., at St Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney. The visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., at the same location.
Q: How can I support Lilie James’s family?
A: A GoFundMe page has been set up by Meaghan Goughnour in order to support the family with funeral costs and any other extra expenses that may arise. You can donate to the page [here]. You can also send flowers, cards, or messages of sympathy to the family’s address.
Q: How can I prevent such murders from happening?
A: The Sydney Police Department advises people to follow these tips when dealing with stalking or harassment:
- Report any unwanted or threatening contact or behaviour to the police as soon as possible.
- Keep a record of any evidence, such as messages, emails, photos, or videos, that show the stalking or harassment.
- Block or delete the stalker or harasser from your phone, social media, or email accounts.
- Inform your family, friends, coworkers, or school staff about the situation and ask them to support you and alert you of any suspicious activity.
- Seek professional help or counselling if you feel scared, anxious, or depressed.