Police are investigating a murder at one of Sydney’s most prestigious private schools following the discovery of a body inside a bathroom at the school’s gym.
Lillie James, a 21-year-old female staff member who worked as a water polo coach at St Andrew’s Cathedral School in Sydney, was found dead with serious head injuries just before midnight on Wednesday.
Superintendent Martin Fileman said investigating officers were searching for a man, also aged in his 20s, who was also employed by the school. According to the ABC, the man is Paul Thijssen, a sports assistant at the school.
The school, which will be closed for the rest of the week, has told parents that no students were involved in the incident.
“St Andrew’s Cathedral School remains closed today to all students except those sitting Year 12 exams, as the school continues to work with Police following an onsite death overnight,” a spokesperson from the school said.
“No students were involved and there is no ongoing threat. An area of the school, not accessible to students, is a crime zone, and we await the approval of Police before bringing everyone back on site.”
The school said counsellors have been brought onsite to provide professional support for parents and students.
Anyone with information which could help the investigation is urged to call police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.