Tiahleigh Palmer’s killer Rick Thorburn found unresponsive in Brisbane jail cell

It is currently unclear what his condition is, however Queensland Corrective Services has confirmed the incident.

Thorburn pleaded guilty of killing Tiahleigh in 2018, two years after he was charged with her murder. During the trial, Thorburn admitted to killing the child, after discovering that his 19-year-old son had engaged in incest, with fears Tiahleigh may have been pregnant.

“Queensland Corrective Services can confirm a prisoner was transported to hospital from Wolston Correctional Centre after being found unresponsive in his cell this morning,” a spokesperson told news.com.au.

However, as it stands the CSIU would not confirm the events that led to his hospitalisation.

“Initial advice is that the 62-year-old man appeared well earlier in the morning, however was found unresponsive in his cell at about 8:30am.

“He was in a single cell at the time.

“Responding officers commenced first aid and worked with Queensland Health staff to stabilise the prisoner until paramedics arrived.

“The matter has been referred to the CSIU for consideration.”

Shortly after his arrest in 2016, police believe Thorburn attempted suicide after he swallowed pills and collapsed. The Queensland man was taken to Princess Alexandra Hospital in an induced coma and missed what would have been his first court appearance.

The murder that shocked Australia

Tiahleigh’s death sent shockwaves around the country when her body was found on the banks of the Pimpama River on the Gold Coast in November 2015, several days after she was reported missing. She was found just wearing her underwear, and the child’s body was so badly decomposed that a cause of death could not be established in the autopsy.

It’s since been established Tiahleigh was murdered on October 30, 2015. Although Thorburn told police he drove her to school, she was not seen during the day and did not attend any classes.

Thorburn was jailed for life in 2018 after confessing to murdering the girl on October 29, 2015.

Thorburn’s wife, Julene and two sons have also been jailed for the involvement in Tiahleigh’s murder. Trent received a four year sentence and was charged on incest and perjury offences, while his brother Josh was charged with perverting the course of justice.

– with NCA Newswire

More to come

Originally published as Tiahleigh Palmer’s killer, Rick Thorburn, found unresponsive in Brisbane jail cell