Daughter Accused of Murdering Mother in Khandallah Home

A murder trial currently unfolding in the High Court has drawn attention to a tragic incident involving the death of 79-year-old Helen Gregory. Gregory was found dead in her home in Khandallah, Wellington, on January 24, 2024. Her daughter, Julia DeLuney, faces charges related to her mother’s death, with the proceedings now entering their fourth week.

During the trial, the court heard an audio recording of a phone call made by Gregory to her bank the evening before her death. In this call, she remarked, “Not that I’m thinking of dying tomorrow or anything.” This chilling statement has raised eyebrows as the prosecution argues that DeLuney staged the incident to appear as an accident.

The circumstances surrounding Gregory’s death are under scrutiny, particularly regarding a significant financial investment made by DeLuney on her mother’s behalf. The court learned that DeLuney had invested a substantial amount of money into cryptocurrency, an area she had been trading in for years. This financial connection adds a layer of complexity to the case, as the prosecution suggests that financial motives may have been a factor in the alleged crime.

As the trial progresses, testimonies from various witnesses, including family members and financial experts, are expected to shed light on the relationship between Gregory and DeLuney. The prosecution is working to establish a timeline and motive, while the defense is preparing to counter these claims by emphasizing the lack of direct evidence linking DeLuney to her mother’s death.

The case has garnered significant media attention, not only due to the tragic nature of the crime but also because it raises questions about elder financial exploitation and the responsibilities of family members in managing finances.

The outcome of this trial could have lasting implications, both for those involved and for discussions surrounding elder care and financial ethics in familial relationships. As the court continues to hear evidence, the public and legal community is closely watching this high-profile case unfold in Wellington.