The family of Lilie James, who was a water polo coach at St. Andrew’s Cathedral School, is reportedly suing the institution after she was killed by one of its employees.
The victim, who was 21 years old at that time, was allegedly murdered by Paul Thijssen, a former partner of James, in the school’s gym on October 25.
According to a report by The Daily Telegraph, James’ parents, Peta and Jamie, are seeking legal advice in an attempt to receive compensation for their daughter’s death.
They are accusing the school of gross negligence. They will also question how the student was able to get killed on the premises and the lack of night-time security.
An individual close to the family noted that there is a lot of anger in the family, and they want to know how the school failed to protect their daughter.
James was given a private funeral service last Friday at the Danesbank Anglican School.
Hundreds of people, including Premier Chris Minns of New South Wales, attended the funeral.
James’ father gave a short statement about his daughter, stating that she was a passionate teacher and coach. She also loved to play water polo and dance.
In his statement, the father described his daughter as an independent and vibrant individual who lived her life to the fullest.
He also thanked the community for its support during this difficult time.
According to CCTV footage, Thijssen, who was a sports assistant, followed James inside the gym on the night of her death.
He then left the area on his own and called triple-zero to report the location of his former partner’s body.
His body was eventually found in the waters near The Gap at Vaucluse.
Prior to her death, James reportedly ended her brief affair with Thijssen, which led to calls for stricter domestic violence laws.
The school then informed her family about the gruesome incident and revealed that the gym’s bathroom would be demolished.
Head of St. Andrew’s Cathedral School Julie McGonigle stated that there were no words to describe the devastating incident.
