A fundraiser for a father whose wife leapt from a cliff with their two babies in South Australia has provided new insight into their family life. The incident occurred on July 27, when Mt Gambier resident Helena Wright died after jumping from a clifftop at Cape Northumberland, west of Port Macdonnell.
Her body and that of her infant daughter, Hazel, were recovered by local fishermen. Despite extensive searches, her three-month-old son, Lewis, has not been found. Police are investigating the tragedy as a murder-suicide and have called off the land and water search for Lewis, though they will continue to search the shoreline for any remains.
Adding to the distress of the situation, Ms. Wright had reportedly visited the Mt Gambier police station seeking help on the Sunday prior to the incident but was turned away. When a friend requested a welfare check on Monday morning, officers found her home empty, suggesting Ms. Wright had already departed for Cape Northumberland with her children.
Ms. Wright's husband, Brad, has not spoken publicly. A friend launched a GoFundMe campaign to honor the family, describing the event as Helena stepping "into the arms of her waiting savior." The fundraiser aims to cover funeral costs, flights for Ms. Wright's family from Estonia, and support for Mr. Wright. It has raised $31,000 of a $75,000 goal.
Photos shared through the fundraiser depict Ms. Wright with her children, Hazel, who was 23 months old, and Lewis. The couple was described as deeply religious. One neighbor stated that Ms. Wright "was obviously troubled and obviously depressed," and vehemently rejected online speculation about Mr. Wright, calling him a "tremendous father who adored his wife."
It is understood that Mr. Wright, an electrician, last saw his family on Monday morning before leaving for work. Ms. Wright's vehicle was later discovered at the Cape Northumberland car park with its engine still running. A coronial investigation is underway.