A coronial inquest is scheduled to examine the tragic circumstances surrounding the murder of Lilie James, a 21-year-old water polo coach whose life was cut short under horrifying circumstances. James was brutally killed by her former boyfriend, 24-year-old Paul Thijssen, whose actions and mental state leading up to the incident are under intense scrutiny. This inquest, presided over by NSW state coroner Teresa O’Sullivan, will shed light on the complexities of their relationship and the horror of domestic violence.
On October 25, 2023, police conducted a welfare check and discovered James’s lifeless body in a bathroom at St Andrew’s Cathedral School, where both she and Thijssen worked. This shocking finding came just days after she had ended their brief but intense relationship. Authorities were alerted when James’s body was found with serious injuries. The investigation quickly turned towards Thijssen, who became a person of interest. Tragically, he took his own life two days later by jumping off a cliff at Vaucluse, leaving many unanswered questions, including whether those around James could have intervened before her death.
The inquest is anticipated to dive deep into the context of coercive control and abusive behavior that manifested in Thijssen’s treatment of both James and previous partners. Thijssen had been described as a seemingly normal individual by his colleagues; however, evidence suggests a darker reality. Much of the narrative of their relationship includes controlling behavior and disturbing incidents that unfolded after the pair first began dating a few months before James’s death, with escalating tensions leading up to the fateful day.
During the inquest proceedings this week, details have emerged revealing Thijssen’s pattern of stalking James prior to the murder. In the days leading up to the murder, surveillance footage showed Thijssen rehearsing how he would ambush James in the school bathroom. His meticulous planning included practicing lunging at bathroom doors and even placing a “cleaning in progress” sign to herself into the bathroom that he had selected for the attack, effectively forcing her into a vulnerable position. Counsel assisting the coroner Jennifer Single SC noted the chilling nature of the evidence presented, underscoring that this was a premeditated act—more than just a momentary loss of control.
Moreover, Thijssen's troubling history was revealed during the inquest, particularly regarding his past relationship with an 18-year-old woman named Freya. She detailed alarming instances where Thijssen exhibited obsessive behavior, including trying to control her movements and expressing violent tendencies, such as punching a tree next to her during a heated confrontation. This earlier relationship showcases a troubling pattern that foreshadowed his fatal actions towards James.
Counsel Single has emphasized the importance of identifying potential warning signs related to domestic violence. New statistics reveal that almost half of all homicides in NSW last year involved domestic violence, a statistic that reinforces the critical need for awareness and intervention in such relationships. The inquest aims to delve into whether any preventative measures could have been taken to protect James.
As heart-wrenching tributes and remembrances from friends and family continue to emerge, the impact of loss is palpable. James’s grandmother, Barbara Adelt, poignantly described her granddaughter as “a beautiful, beautiful young woman” who was “so full of life.” Adelt’s sentiments resonate with hundreds of others who knew James and are rallying for justice and understanding in the aftermath of this tragedy.
Thijssen’s actions have ignited a conversation about mental health, societal perceptions of masculinity, and the dire consequences of neglecting psychological health issues. Despite being seen as a respected sports coach, his disturbing behaviors and eventual actions reveal a facade that many failed to see.
The inquest is expected to resume soon, with additional evidence from domestic violence experts and additional witnesses. As the investigation unfolds, crucial lessons must be drawn to improve response strategies to domestic violence, lessen stigma, and provide support systems for victims and their families.
This tragic case is one that demands attention, not only for the horror of what occurred but for the implications it has for society. As inquiries continue, the hope is that, through the lens of this harrowing experience, measures can be implemented to protect others from similar fates, leading to a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding domestic violence.
Support services are vital for those affected. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or is in need of help, numerous resources are available including 1800RESPECT at 1800 737 732 and Lifeline at 13 11 14.
