An expert stated that the man's fragile self-perception was completely shattered by the breakup, leading him to brutally beat his ex-girlfriend to death within the school where they both worked.
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03-20, 2025On October 25, 2023, ice hockey coach Paul Thijssen struck water polo coach Lilie James at least 25 times in the head with a hammer inside St Andrew's Cathedral School in Sydney. James had ended her brief two-month relationship with the 24-year-old man just five days before she was murdered in the gym bathroom.
Forensic psychologist Katie Seidler speculated that Thijssen murdered his 21-year-old ex-girlfriend because he feared the breakup would shatter the facade of his perfect image. Analyzing Thijssen's records, she suggested his fragile self-perception, feeling inadequate and unworthy of love, led him to construct a perfect public image through lies. Although Thijssen displayed coercive control in the relationship, the psychologist stated that there were no apparent warning signs or indications of violence.
Thijssen had no history of violence, leading Seidler to conclude that there may have been nothing to prevent this act of gender-based violence. The inquest into the deaths of James and Thijssen is examining issues of coercive control and unacceptable behavior in intimate relationships. Thijssen also died hours after his ex-girlfriend's death; Coroner Teresa O'Sullivan is assessing whether his death was a suicide.
Australian eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant will provide evidence on the final day of the inquest, after which a statement from James's family will be read. O'Sullivan described the inquest as "an absolutely tragic case." If you need help, please call 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) for national sexual assault, domestic and family violence counseling services.
