Dharminder Singh, the former partner of Jana Armstrong, made his first court appearance in Toowoomba yesterday, charged with her murder and two other serious crimes. The 48-year-old taxi driver appeared via video link, covering his face and appearing visibly distressed during the proceedings.
Jana Armstrong's disappearance on 7 July sent shockwaves through the community, with her car discovered near her home in Newtown the following day. A tragic search and rescue operation ensued, culminating in the devastating discovery of her body by a group of pig hunters off the New England Highway, close to Ravensbourne national park, on Saturday.
Police allege that Mr Singh deliberately set fire to a motor vehicle the day after Ms Armstrong's disappearance – an incident which is now linked to his murder charge. In court, his lawyer, Ramli Salehkon from Toowoomba Multicultural Legal Service, maintained his client's innocence and indicated an intention to plead not guilty to all charges.
The courtroom was filled with over a dozen members of Ms Armstrong's family, including her four-month-old baby, who was cradled by her sister, Faith Isaacs. In a poignant moment outside court, Ms Isaacs expressed gratitude for the community's support, stating that it was "all about" her nephew and acknowledging his resilience in these difficult circumstances.
The case will continue to unfold over the coming months, with Magistrate Lisa O'Neil requesting a brief of evidence by 14 September. The next court appearance is scheduled for 1 October.