Murder-suicide inquest: Angie Robinson faced terrible choice

A coroner's inquest into a murder-suicide heard testimony Thursday that Angie Robinson remained in her home in danger because her severely autistic teenage son's violent outbursts couldn't be accommodated at the local women's shelter. 

The jury began to hear evidence on Monday about the troubles facing Robinson, a single mother, who killed her son, Robbie Robinson and then herself, in Prince Rupert in April, 2014.

Urged to seek safety

Earlier this week, the inquest heard evidence about domestic violence Angie suffered at the hands of Robbie's father, Robert Mutch.

Mutch is alleged to have broken into Angie's house, assaulted her, and illegally confined her.

Prince Rupert RCMP Cpl. Josh Brownlee testified police responded to at least 14 calls over two years. 

Authorities urged Angie to seek safety at a women's shelter.

But her 16 year old son wasn't allowed to go to the shelter with her. 

Violent Outbursts

Robbie was prone to violence, including punching and head-butting. He'd been sent home from school and even barred from a nearby respite home. He  was considered a danger to other women and children at the shelter because of his violent outbursts.

Angie feared that if she went to the transition home, Robbie would be sent far away from their home community. So, she stayed in the home where both mother and son were later found dead.

Earlier this week, Michelle Watson, Angie's sister, told the inquest that Angie had often approached the Ministry of Children and Family Development for help, but no support was available. 

Jurors were told Angie had attempted suicide several times.

Thursday, a child safety worker with the Ministry of Children and Families testified she erred in not considering the mother's suicide attempts a "red flag."

Tracy Beynon broke down and cried several times while giving evidence.

"I did not know where Robbie could go," she said.