A family has been left “absolutely shattered” after a woman was allegedly shot dead on Halloween at a home in NSW’s Hunter Valley.
The body of Rhukaya Lake, 39, was found with a gunshot wound at a property on Ellalong St in Kearsley, east of Cessnock, about 7.30pm on Friday.
“Quite horrific and traumatic for the police attending,” Superintendent Steve Laksa said, describing the incident as a “domestic violence related homicide”.
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One of Lake’s children shared an emotional tribute on social media, saying the family will “never be the same”.
“Forever gone (sic) be in our hearts mum, this has absolutely shattered the whole family, it’s never gone (sic) be the same without you around!!” he wrote.
“I know you’ll forever be looking down on every single one of us n i really hope we all make u proud.”
Lake’s body was found at a property on Ellalong St in Kearsley. Credit: 7NEWS
Lake’s partner, Christopher James McLoughney, 37, was arrested at a sporting club car park on Hetton St in Bellbird about 6.45pm on Saturday.
The pair are understood to have begun dating in June.
He has been charged with murder, and with possessing drugs, an unauthorised firearm, and ammunition without a licence.
Police said they found a sawn-off shotgun and ammunition in his Hyundai Tucson during a search.
McLoughney was refused bail to appear before Parramatta Local Court on Sunday, where a magistrate formally denied bail.
McLoughney was arrested at a sporting club car park on Saturday. Credit: NSW Police
He didn’t appear in person, but was represented by lawyer Osman Samin, who described the incident as “tragic”.
“It is a tragic incident, and nothing that I’m going to say is going to change that,” Samin said.
“Understandably, everyone involved is distraught.”
Samin requested welfare checks for his client, citing “a number of significant mental health conditions”.
The matter has been adjourned until January next year.
Cessnock Mayor Dan Watton said he was “deeply saddened by the tragic event”.
“My heartfelt condolences go out to all those impacted — especially the close family and friends who are grieving at this incredibly difficult time,” he said in a statement.
“Please know that the entire Cessnock community stands with you.”
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au.
In an emergency, call 000.
Advice and counselling for men concerned about their use of family violence: Men’s Referral Service, 1300 766 49
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