Charlotte Foster
Family & Pets

"Just so tragic": Grandfather of slain boys speaks out

Warning: This article contains distressing content that readers may find upsetting. 

The grandfather of the two young boys who were found dead in their home in the Blue Mountains has spoken out about his profound loss, while also sharing an update on his daughter's mental state while she remains in prison. 

Geoff Densmore is preparing to bury his grandsons Ben, 9 and Russell, 11, who were found dead in their mother’s Faulconbridge home on September 10th. 

Mr Densmore is also trying to support his daughter, Trish Smith, who has been charged over the alleged murder of her two children, as she remains under police guard. 

Ms Smith was rushed to hospital with self-inflicted injuries after the bodies of the two young brothers were discovered in their beds by their father, with both boys suffering fatal stab wounds. 

Mr Densmore told The Daily Telegraph that he is preparing to bury his grandsons, while trying to cope with the devastating loss. 

“The kids, they were special kids, so special,” Mr Densmore said. 

“I have to put them under the ground. I’ve got so much to do. So many people are affected by this, the government has got to do something about this.”

He went on to clarify that both he and his wife had no idea about their daughter's mental health struggles until it was too late. 

“We really don’t know what happened. We had no idea she was unwell. Many prayers and private masses have been said for her,” he said.

“You can’t imagine what it’s like. Imagine if it happened to your family."

“Linda, she’s not good, she’s very religious. She’s praying. I think I might crack one day but I’m trying not to. I’m trying to be strong for everyone. I still can’t understand that Ben … Russell. They’re gone.”

Mr Densmore said he was not angry with Ms Smith, instead saying: “There is only one word for it: tragic. It’s just so tragic.”

The grandfather has not spoken to his daughter following her charges, however, he did say Ms Smith was in “a bad way”.

“We are all dealing with this, the whole community. We have to bury two children, we’ve never been in this situation before. We’re not sure what to do.”

Need to talk to someone? Don't go it alone. 

Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au

Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636

SANE: 1800 187 263; saneforums.org

Image credits: Supplied / NSW Police

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family & pets, grandfather, Faulconbridge, brothers