Mackay, Queensland – A typically quiet suburban street in Mackay, Queensland, was thrust into chaos on a Wednesday afternoon. Robb Place, home to many retirees, became a scene of tragedy when a young woman was shot dead in the driveway of her home, with two young girls in the car behind her.
Natalie Frahm, a 34-year-old mother of two, was preparing to leave for an after-school sports activity when she was shot through the window of her car by Ryan Geoffrey Cole, her neighbor. The two children in the back of the car were unharmed but fled to seek help from a visiting neighbor, James McGill, who was also shot while trying to assist.
Amidst the flashing lights and sirens, the community of Mackay, known for its coal mining industry and coastal allure, was shaken by the violence that unfolded in their midst. Ms. Frahm, an active member of the Muay Thai community and aspiring boxer, had found a home in Mackay after relocating from Mount Isa with her FIFO partner.
As the investigation unfolds, Detective Acting Superintendent Emma Novosel reveals that Mr. Cole, the alleged shooter, had minimal interaction with the police prior to the incident, leaving the motive unclear. Witnesses described a “revolver-style weapon” used in the attack, highlighting the tragic nature of the violence that occurred in broad daylight.
Premier Steven Miles and Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski have expressed shock at the events, with a focus on reviewing gun laws and assessing the alleged shooter’s access to weapons. As the community grieves and the investigation continues, the bravery of the young girls who witnessed the violent act serves as a testament to the traumatic impact of the incident.
The aftermath of the shooting has left residents reeling, with the once peaceful neighborhood now a crime scene. Neighbors, still in disbelief, reflect on the rare occurrence of such violence in Mackay, emphasizing the need for support and understanding in the wake of the tragedy.
Following the arrest of Mr. Cole on murder and attempted murder charges, Mackay grapples with the aftermath of the shooting. The public holiday that followed the incident brought a bittersweet juxtaposition of festivities and mourning, reflecting the complexity of emotions in the tight-knit community.