Mackay, Australia — A peaceful Queensland community was shattered when a 34-year-old woman was fatally shot through the window of her vehicle, a shocking act of violence that also resulted in the shooting of a neighbor who came to her aid. The incident occurred on a quiet Wednesday evening in South Mackay, leaving local residents and family to mourn the sudden and violent loss.
Natalie Frahm, identified as the victim, was esteemed for her vibrant presence and generosity. Described by those who knew her as a dedicated mother and a passionate enthusiast of Muay Thai boxing, Frahm had recently moved to Mackay with her partner and was working as a customer service manager in her brother’s business. Her life, marked by her hobbies of cooking, camping, and skateboarding, ended abruptly in what police have determined to be a random shooting.
Charged with her murder is Ryan Geoffrey Cole, a 31-year-old resident of the same street as Frahm. Authorities accuse him of the attack that not only claimed Frahm’s life but also critically injured a 66-year-old neighbor. The neighbor, responding to the commotion, approached Cole and was subsequently shot in the hand and chest.
The chaotic scene unfolded in front of Frahm’s children, ages 11 and 12, who witnessed the attack and fled to raise the alarm. The bravery displayed by the children in escaping and seeking help has been commended by local law enforcement. Both children were physically unharmed and are currently in the care of other family members.
The suspect fled the scene immediately after the shooting, prompting police to issue an emergency declaration to lock down the surrounding area. He was later apprehended at a service station on the Bruce Highway without further incident.
Investigations are ongoing as detectives attempt to determine a motive for the shootings, described by police as seemingly unprovoked. The suspect was known to local police but had minimal recent contact, leaving community members and authorities searching for answers in the wake of this tragedy.
As the news spread, the local community, including fellow gym members where Frahm trained in Muay Thai, expressed profound grief and shock. Nick Vanderzee, owner of the Muay Thai gym, remembered her as “an absolute rockstar” at the gym and someone who was always ready to lend a helping hand.
Amidst expressions of condolence and remembrance, law enforcement continues to probe the circumstances leading up to the incident. The focus remains on understanding the sequence of events and investigating how the suspect, previously known to police and without recent issues, came to commit such a violent act.
This tragic event has drawn attention to issues of public safety and gun control in the area, prompting a thorough review of the suspect’s access to firearms and his background concerning weapon licensing. Notably, the suspect had a registered collection of weapons confiscated by authorities in 2021, adding a layer of complexity to the ongoing investigation.
As the community reels from this violent disruption, efforts are intensified to provide support to the affected families and to bring justice for the lives irrevocably changed by this unforeseen act of violence.