An inquest into the 2024 Floreat double murder in Perth, Western Australia, has heard disturbing evidence about Mark James Bombara’s behaviour before he shot and killed Jennifer Petelczyc, 59, and her daughter, Gretl Petelczyc, 18.
On November 10, 2026, Bombara’s longtime friend Allan Maher told the Western Australian Coroner’s Court that the 63-year-old was a controlling man who struggled to accept the breakdown of his marriage.
Maher described Bombara as a “control freak” who was unable to cope with losing control of his relationship with his estranged wife, Rowena.
The killings occurred on May 24, 2024, when Bombara went to the Petelczyc family home in the Perth suburb of Floreat searching for his wife. He fatally shot Jennifer and Gretl before taking his own life.
Friend Describes Bombara’s Behaviour
Maher told the inquest that Bombara repeatedly discussed his marriage separation during a visit to his rural property at Boyup Brook two days before the killings.
He recalled Bombara expressing anger about his wife leaving and making threatening comments about finding her.
Maher said he had regarded his friend as domineering but had not believed he was capable of serious violence.
He also described Bombara purchasing cable ties and a long raincoat during their journey back to Perth on the day of the murders. In hindsight, Maher told the court, he believed his friend had deliberately involved him in a plan.
Domestic Violence Concerns Under Investigation
Lawyers representing Rowena Bombara and her daughter Ariel told the inquest that years of alleged domestic abuse, coercive control and financial control preceded the killings.
The women had reportedly left the family home and gone into hiding because they feared for their safety. They had also raised concerns with police about Bombara’s access to firearms.
Acting State Coroner Sarah Linton said family and domestic violence would remain central to the proceedings.
Inquest Examines Missed Warning Signs
The five-day inquest is examining police responses, medical care and the circumstances leading to the deaths.
The proceedings are also expected to consider whether earlier intervention could have prevented the tragedy.
The deaths of Jennifer and Gretl Petelczyc prompted significant public concern and contributed to major changes in Western Australia’s firearms laws.