Custody dispute ends in tragedy as mother accused of killing her two children

A Massachusetts woman who had been pursuing custody of her two young children during a divorce is now accused of killing them inside the family home, according to law enforcement officials and court documents. State police issued an arrest warrant on Saturday charging 49-year-old Janette MacAusland of Wellesley with two counts of murder in connection with the deaths of her children, Kai, aged 7, and Ella, aged 6.

Authorities say she is currently being held in Vermont and is expected to appear on Monday in Bennington County Superior Court on a fugitive from justice charge while extradition to Massachusetts is arranged. The investigation began on Friday evening when police in Wellesley were contacted by authorities in Vermont requesting a welfare check on family members at a residence in town.

Officers attended the property and discovered both children deceased inside the home.

Court filings in probate proceedings show that Samuel MacAusland filed for divorce in October after nine years of marriage, seeking custody of the children as well as the family home.

Janette MacAusland later submitted a response of her own, also requesting custody and control of the property.

On April 16, both parties filed a joint motion agreeing to appoint a neutral third party to assess custody arrangements and provide recommendations, and a guardian was appointed on April 21.

Information about the criminal case remains limited, including whether MacAusland has legal representation. Attorneys linked to both parties have not responded to requests for comment.

Kai and Ella were students at Schofield Elementary School, where they attended kindergarten and second grade.

The school district said counsellors will be available on Monday to support pupils and staff following the incident.

Superintendent David Lussier described the situation as devastating for the local community and asked residents to keep the family in their thoughts. He said the loss would be felt widely across the school and beyond.