The family of an Australian woman allegedly murdered in the United States has initiated efforts to bring her two young sons to Australia. Meaghan Bowler, 32, originally from the New South Wales Central Coast, was reportedly found with multiple stab wounds in her South Manatee County home on April 9. Police responded to the residence after her husband, Jesse Nicholas Jones, 39, allegedly called 911 and stated he had repeatedly stabbed his wife during an altercation. Paramedics were able to revive Bowler, but she later died in hospital. Jones has been charged with first-degree murder and is currently in custody.
The two boys, two-year-old Jesse and nine-month-old Elijah, remain in the US under the care of Jones's mother. Bowler's younger sister, Madisson, 27, intends to adopt her nephews and raise them in Australia. This process could take between six to twelve months, according to Madisson. She plans to put her career as a tennis coach on hold and relocate to Florida for the duration of the proceedings.
Madisson Bowler and her father, Tony, who is halting his photography business, will be in the US to manage the legal and administrative requirements. Madisson stated her determination to ensure her nephews are safe, loved, and surrounded by family in Australia. She noted that the children currently lack US birth certificates and Social Security numbers, causing significant delays. The family also needs to complete the process for Australian citizenship by descent.
Bowler, a former tennis coach and real estate agent, grew up on the NSW Central Coast. She had moved to the US in 2023 after meeting her husband online in 2022, initially planning a three-month stay. Her family described her as having a vibrant energy and kindness.