WA Police Failures Linked to Double Murder in Floreat

An internal investigation found eight officers neglected their duties, ignoring warnings that could have prevented the deaths of Jennifer Petelczyc and her daughter.

• WA Police admitted to critical failures in responding to warnings from Ariel Bombara and her mother about the danger posed by Mark Bombara before he murdered two women in May 2024.
• Mark Bombara, who legally owned 13 firearms, killed Jennifer Petelczyc and her 18-year-old daughter Gretl while searching for his estranged wife and daughter, then took his own life.
• An internal report revealed eight officers failed to perform their duties, including not conducting proper risk assessments or seizing Bombara’s firearms despite clear red flags.
• The investigation resulted in 18 recommendations, including stricter firearms laws, mandatory mental health checks for gun owners, and enhanced domestic violence training for police officers.
• WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch acknowledged systemic issues, including outdated policies and insufficient training, and confirmed disciplinary action against the officers, though none were dismissed.

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