Australian Business Executive Allegedly Targeted in Attempted Killing at Luxury Aged Care Facility

The wife of Robert Branchi, a wealthy former chair of Automotive Holdings Group, faces charges after allegedly attempting to kill him at a luxury aged care facility in Perth. The incident reportedly occurred last week, just days after Mr. Branchi's 90th birthday.

Gay Bernadette Branchi, 88, was arrested on Friday at The Queenslea aged care service in Claremont, a day after the alleged offense. She has been charged with one count of "attempted unlawfully to kill." A police spokesperson stated the incident involved a 90-year-old man known to the accused.

The couple reportedly shared a room at the care home, described as one of Perth's most expensive facilities, where room deposits are said to exceed $1.6 million.

During her appearance before Perth Magistrates Court via AVL on Friday, Mrs. Branchi appeared emotional and confirmed only her name. Her defense lawyer's bail application was denied by the magistrate due to the seriousness of the allegations. However, the magistrate expressed concern about remanding Mrs. Branchi into custody, citing her vulnerability and potential dementia, stating, "My hands are tied." Mrs. Branchi was subsequently released on bail on Sunday and is scheduled to appear before Stirling Gardens Magistrates Court on Wednesday.

Property records indicate the couple, who have two children, own a riverside Mosman Park home valued at approximately $5 million, two car dealerships, and a Cottesloe property. They sold property valued at about $5.2 million last year and have recently engaged in philanthropy through the Branchi Family Foundation, supporting organizations like Telethon and the West Australian Symphony Orchestra.

Mr. Branchi amassed a significant shareholding during his 25-year leadership of the Perth-based dealership network. He retired in late 2010 and later sold millions of shares for nearly $14 million. The Daily Mail has contacted the Branchi Family Foundation for comment.