Suzanne Margaret Lupica: Woman, 75, faces court over alleged murder of Lilian Catherine Donnelly, 88

A 75-year-old woman has been remanded in police custody after allegedly killing a 88-year-old woman at a southern suburbs aged care facility. Suzanne Margaret Lupica allegedly murdered her roommate Lilian Catherine Donnelly at the Port Kennedy Bethanie Waters Aged Care retirement villages on Friday. Ms Lupica faced one charge of murder when appearing via audio link in the Northbridge Magistrates Court on Australia Day. Authorities were first alerted to the case when a triple zero call was made about 4.20am after the victim was found dead. The pair had only shared a room for four days. Asked by Magistrate Dianne Patricia Scaddan whether she understood the charge, Ms Lupica replied “not really, because that that isn’t how it was”. Ms Lupica’s matter has been adjourned to appear in the Stirling Gardens Supreme Court on February 19, which is the next State homicide listing. The court heard Ms Lupica was receiving medication for heart and bowel conditions while in hospital under police guard. Magistrate Scaddan said Ms Lupica could apply for bail prior to the next hearing through a duty judge. “A duty judge who can deal with the matter prior to the end of the weekend,” she said. “Although I doubt very much, she’ll be in any position to advance bail prior to the end of the weekend.” Homicide Squad detectives are continuing their investigation into the Olivenza Crescent death. In an email sent to residents on Friday after the incident, Bethanie’s facility manager Grace Mlingo said the centre was working with police, but there was “no ongoing risk to resident safety”. “At this stage, it is not clear exactly what has occurred and, as with any sudden death, the matter has been referred to WA Police,” she said. “We are working closely with WA Police to provide them with information and assist their investigation. WA Police will be on site for most of (Friday), so there may be some disruption to visitors. “We understand this incident would be distressing. I am available if you or your families have any questions or concerns, but I ask that you respect the privacy of the family and avoid speculation, discussion or commentary on this matter.” In a media statement, Bethanie chief executive officer Roulé Jones said the organisation’s heartfelt condolences went to the family and loved ones of the deceased. “Our staff responded quickly and professionally when the alarm was raised, and followed all Bethanie procedures. We wish to reassure the public that no Bethanie staff were involved in this incident,” she said. “The safety, wellbeing, and care of our residents remain our highest priority.”