St Andrew’s Cathedral School was the location of the homicide. Image credit: Kennethc, Wikimedia Commons
A female staff member at a Sydney private school has been found dead with serious head injuries inside the school’s gym.
Police were called to St Andrew’s Cathedral School on Wednesday night to conduct a welfare check.
Officers located the body of a woman in her early 20s in a scene that was described as “confronting”.
It has been reported that the woman is 22-year-old Lilie James, a water polo coach at the school.
“From her injuries, it was apparent that she was the victim of a homicide,” Detective Superintendent Martin Fileman said in a press conference.
Police have established a second crime scene in Vaucluse and are searching for a man they believe can assist with the investigation.
Fileman said that he is also in his early 20s and believed to be employed by the school.
He confirmed that the pair are known to each other, but there is nothing to indicate domestic violence.
The State Crime Command’s homicide squad is assisting local detectives with the investigation.
Parents of students at St Andrew’s Cathedral were informed that the school was closed to all students except those sitting Year 12 exams.
“No students were involved and there is no ongoing threat,” a school spokesperson said.
“We ask that the media does not seek to interrupt their concentration or state of mind as they sit exams that are significant for their graduation.”
The police are working with the school to ensure the welfare of the students.
The main body of the school is a crime scene and will remain closed for a period of time.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/.
