WELLESLEY, Massachusetts — A quiet suburban community is reeling after two young children, just 6 and 7 years old, were found dead inside a home on Edgemoor Avenue late Friday night. Authorities say the case has now turned into a double murder investigation involving their mother, 49-year-old Janette MacAusland.
Police were called to the residence around 9:30 p.m. after receiving a request from Vermont authorities for a welfare check. When officers entered the home, they discovered the two children unresponsive and later confirmed dead at the scene.
Investigators say MacAusland has been accused of killing her own children. She is currently in custody in Vermont and is expected to appear in court on a fugitive from justice charge before being returned to Massachusetts proceedings.
The identities of the children have not been publicly released, but officials confirmed they were both students in the Wellesley Public Schools system. The news has left the school community shaken and struggling to process the loss.
In response, the school district announced that counselors will be available on Monday to support students, teachers, and staff. The focus, officials said, is on helping the community cope with the emotional impact of the tragedy.
Authorities from the Massachusetts State Police, working alongside the Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office and Wellesley Police, are jointly handling the investigation. Officials have remained cautious about releasing additional details as the case continues to develop.
Law enforcement sources say the investigation began crossing state lines after concerns were raised in Vermont, prompting the welfare check that ultimately led to the discovery inside the home.
For now, officials are keeping many details sealed, and the motive behind the incident remains unclear as investigators continue their work.
