Paul Thijssen stalked, rehearsed murder before sports coach’s death

Tragic Inquest Begins: Families Seek Answers in the Deaths of Lilie James and Paul Thijssen

The NSW Coroners Court has begun proceedings in the inquest into the tragic deaths of Lilie James and Paul Thijssen, two young individuals whose lives were cut short under devastating circumstances. The inquest marks a poignant moment for their families and loved ones, who are seeking answers and closure. Jamie and Peta James, the parents of Lilie, attended the coroner’s court, their presence a testament to their unwavering strength and commitment to understanding the events surrounding their daughter’s death. In contrast, Paul’s parents, who reside in the Netherlands, were not present in person but were represented through legal counsel. Despite their physical absence, they have reportedly shared evidence with the coroner’s team, detailing the challenges Paul faced in the final years of his life.

Lilie James, a vibrant and accomplished young woman, lived a life filled with purpose and joy. A water polo coach at St Andrew’s, she balanced her career with university studies and enjoyed the love and admiration of her family and friends. Those who knew her described her as confident, calm, and caring—qualities that left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered. Her untimely death has left a gaping hole in the lives of those who cherished her, and the inquest aims to shed light on the circumstances that led to this tragedy. Meanwhile, Paul Thijssen, aged 23, was a young man with a promising future. Born in the Netherlands to parents Esther, a business executive, and Stefan, the founder of a music festival, Paul’s life was marked by both privilege and resilience. He spent time in Australia between 2015 and 2017, where he excelled as a sports captain and prefect at St Andrew’s Cathedral School. After returning to the Netherlands for further studies, he later moved back to Australia, where he met Lilie while working as a cricket coach at St Andrew’s.

The relationship between Lilie and Paul was a central focus of the inquest, with details emerging about their connection and the events that unfolded. Friends and acquaintances painted a picture of a couple whose lives intertwined in ways that were both deeply personal and complex. The coroner’s court heard testimonies from those close to the pair, offering insights into their lives and the circumstances surrounding their deaths. While the specifics of their relationship were not fully disclosed in the initial proceedings, it was clear that their bond had a profound impact on both individuals.

As the inquest progresses, the Thijssen family’s contribution to the proceedings has been notable. While they were unable to attend in person, they have provided evidence to the coroner’s team, revealing a timeline of Paul’s life over the last two years. According to their legal representatives, this evidence highlights a period of significant turmoil and challenges that Paul faced, which ultimately derailed his life. The family’s decision to share this information with the coroner underscores their commitment to understanding the events that led to Paul’s death, even as they navigate their grief from afar.

The inquest has also brought to light the broader implications of this tragedy, raising questions about the support systems in place for young individuals facing personal struggles. Lilie’s friends and family remembered her as a bright and Vivacious individual who seemed to have it all together, yet the events leading to her death reveal a more complicated reality. Similarly, Paul’s downward spiral in his final years serves as a reminder of the complexities of mental health and the challenges of seeking help. The coroner’s investigation will undoubtedly delve into these themes, seeking to uncover the factors that contributed to this heartbreaking outcome.

As the inquest continues, the families of Lilie and Paul remain at the forefront of this emotional journey. Their presence and involvement in the proceedings are a testament to their love and dedication to their children, even in the face of unimaginable loss. The community has rallied around them, offering support and solidarity during this difficult time. For anyone affected by this tragedy—or for those struggling with similar challenges—resources such as the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service (1800RESPECT), Lifeline (131 114), and Beyond Blue (1300 224 636) are available to provide assistance and guidance. The inquest not only seeks to uncover the truth but also to honor the memories of Lilie and Paul, ensuring that their lives are not defined solely by their deaths but by the vibrant personalities and aspirations they embodied.