Robert Child has been charged with murder and burglary following a tragic double homicide in Hoodsport, Washington. The incident involved the death of his estranged wife, Anna Child, and her boyfriend, Jason Hilde, just one day after Anna was granted a protection order against Robert.
The devastating events unfolded on March 24, 2024, following a protection order that had been approved by a Mason County judge just hours earlier on Monday, March 23. Both victims, both 46 years old, were found dead at their home.
Neighbor Caleb McGill was the first to witness the aftermath. He described hearing the sound of gunshots in the afternoon and described what he saw as “really gruesome, most gruesome thing I’ve ever seen.”
McGill called 911 and approached the scene where he found Robert fleeing the property. When confronted, Robert Child reportedly told McGill, “Dude, they pointed a gun at me, and I killed them,” according to the neighbor’s account.
A comprehensive manhunt was launched that lasted approximately 24 hours before authorities received a tip that helped locate Robert Child, who was subsequently arrested.
The Protection Order and Anna’s Fear
Anna Child had filed for a protection order earlier in March, citing extreme fear for her safety. According to court documents, she detailed a pattern of abuse and control from her husband Robert.
Anna’s petition revealed that Robert considered her a possession and had made threatening statements. She wrote that he had told her, “if he can’t have me no one will,” indicating the severe psychological and emotional abuse she had endured. The protection order was granted just 24 hours before the tragic events occurred.
The Tragic Events and Immediate Aftermath
The double homicide occurred at the couple’s home in Hoodsport, Washington. The timing was particularly chilling given the recent legal protection Anna had received.
- Anna Child was found dead alongside her boyfriend Jason Hilde
- Robert Child was arrested shortly after the incident
- Neighbor Caleb McGill was the first to respond and witness the events
- The crime scene was described as “gruesome” by witnesses
McGill’s account of confronting Robert provides insight into what may have transpired. Robert claimed he was acting in self-defense after being threatened with a gun.
The Investigation and Arrest
Mason County deputies launched an extensive search operation after the initial discovery. The manhunt covered a significant area before a tip led to Robert Child’s location.
Following his arrest, Robert attended his first court appearance where he was held on $5 million bail. It remains unclear whether he has entered a plea or retained legal counsel at this time.
Legal Consequences and Current Status
Robert Child faces charges of murder and burglary in connection with the deaths of his wife and her boyfriend. The case has drawn significant attention due to the unusual timing – occurring just after Anna had obtained legal protection.
Legal experts have noted that protection orders are often granted when there’s evidence of imminent danger, and this case highlights the critical importance of such orders in preventing domestic violence tragedies.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When was the protection order granted? The protection order was approved by a Mason County judge on Monday, March 23.
- How long after the order was granted did the murders occur? The murders occurred just one day after the protection order was granted.
- What was the bail amount set for Robert Child? Robert Child was held on $5 million bail following his arrest.
- What was the relationship between Anna and Robert Child? The couple was estranged at the time of the incident.
- Who was the neighbor who witnessed the events? Caleb McGill was the neighbor who heard the gunshots and witnessed the aftermath.
The case has raised questions about the effectiveness of protection orders and the challenges faced by victims of domestic violence. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine the full circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
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