Grandmother arrested after two boys found dead

A regional New South Wales community is in mourning after the bodies of two young boys, aged six and seven, were discovered in a home in Coonabarabran on Monday afternoon.

Police were called to the property at around 2:00pm following reports of welfare concerns. Upon arrival, officers from the Orana Mid-Western Police District found the children deceased inside the home.

A 66-year-old woman, who is known to the children, was arrested at the scene and taken to hospital for assessment. She remains there under police guard.

Authorities have confirmed they are not seeking anyone else in connection with the incident and say there is no ongoing threat to the public.

A crime scene has been established at the residence, and an investigation is underway. Detectives from the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad are assisting local police as part of Strike Force Darnum, which has been formed to probe the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

Earlier police reports indicated the children were aged eight and 10, but they later confirmed the correct ages as six and seven.

The deaths have sent shockwaves through the Coonabarabran community and beyond. NSW Premier Chris Minns expressed his condolences, describing the situation as "heartbreaking".

“What has occurred is terrible and, as a state, we share in the community of Coonabarabran’s grief at the loss of two young boys who had their entire futures ahead of them,” Minns said in a statement.

“I cannot begin to imagine the heartbreak their loved ones are currently feeling, including their family, friends, and teachers. I thank the local officers who attended the scene for their professionalism and bravery in the face of such a horrible event.”

The investigation continues, with police urging the public to allow space for the family and the community to grieve.

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