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Convicted Child Killer Rick Thorburn Found Dead in Queensland Prison Cell
Rick Thorburn, the Queensland man imprisoned for the murder of 12-year-old foster child Tiahleigh Palmer, has died in custody. The convicted killer, who was serving a life sentence, was discovered deceased in his cell at Woodford Correctional Centre.
Death Confirmed by Corrective Services
Queensland Corrective Services affirmed that the 64-year-old inmate was found unresponsive in his single cell at approximately 10 pm on Saturday. “Officers responded and immediately contacted the Queensland Ambulance Service and initiated attempts to resuscitate the man,” a spokesperson stated. “Regrettably, these efforts to revive him were unsuccessful.”
Investigation Underway into Inmate Death
The incident has been referred to the police for investigation, and, as is standard procedure for all deaths in custody in Queensland, the coroner will also be notified. Queensland Corrective Services confirmed that officers involved in the response are receiving support from management and have been commended for their attempts to save the inmate’s life.
Background of the Tiahleigh Palmer Murder Case
Thorburn received a life sentence in 2018 after confessing to the 2015 slaying of Tiahleigh Palmer. The court heard that Thorburn murdered the young girl after his son, Trent, admitted to sexually assaulting her and voiced concerns about a potential pregnancy. Tiahleigh Palmer had been placed into foster care in January 2010, and in January 2015 she was placed under the full-time care of the Thorburn family.
Details of the Crime and Aftermath
Evidence presented to the court revealed that Trent Thorburn informed his mother about the sexual assault and his fears of Tiahleigh’s pregnancy. His mother then relayed this information to Rick Thorburn, who subsequently murdered Tiahleigh on October 29, according to court proceedings. Thorburn admitted his intention was to dispose of Tiahleigh’s body. Her remains were discovered six days later, along the banks of the Pimpama River near the Gold Coast. A Queensland coroner ruled in 2021 that Tiahleigh’s death was likely caused by choking or asphyxiation in a deliberate act committed by Thorburn, dismissing his claim that it was accidental.
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Thorburn’s Funeral Attendance and Family Convictions
Notably, Thorburn acted as a pallbearer at Tiahleigh Palmer’s funeral on November 14, prior to being charged with her murder nearly a year later. Rick Thorburn was one of four members of the Thorburn family convicted in connection with Tiahleigh’s death. His two sons and his wife were also previously jailed, although their sentences have since concluded.
Parole Eligibility
At the time of his death, Rick Thorburn was eligible for parole in 2038.