Tragic Deaths at Whispering Wall: Dad and Baby Leap to Their Deaths
Henry Shepherdson, 38, shocked witnesses on Wednesday afternoon when he jumped from the Whispering Wall at Williamstown, clutching his nine-month-old daughter Kobi in a child carrier. Both died instantly at the scene.
History of Domestic Violence Uncovered
Police named the pair on Thursday and revealed that Kobi’s mother shared photos of her baby girl. Assistant Commissioner Ian Parrott confirmed there was a history of domestic violence between Shepherdson and the child’s mother, but the father had lawful access to Kobi.
“Obviously this is a highly distressing and emotional set of circumstances,” said Mr Parrott.
Mother’s Call and Police Investigation Underway
The mother wasn’t at the dam but called emergency services shortly after witnesses dialled 999. Parrott said,
“Clearly, they had a child together and there was a relationship, but something happened within that relationship. For reasons that all of us can’t fathom, it’s ended in this tragedy.”
Police are now probing the full circumstances. A report will be prepared for the coroner. Authorities confirm no one else is being sought in connection with the deaths.
