Community searches for answers about Sophia Rose's death allegedly at the hands of her mother
Sun 8 Jun
“The state coroner is now investigating the deaths of the mother and daughter.
It's left the family shattered and a community reeling by what happened that afternoon in Moore Park.
Police tape guarding the home is a jolting reminder that this was also a crime scene.
Lauren Flanigan and Sophia's father had separated and were living apart.
It was in the following months that neighbours described a change in Ms Flanigan as she became more involved with her church.
Ms Flanigan had joined the Alive Church in Bundaberg and was baptised in December 2024.
Lauren Flanigan's social media posts offer a glimpse into her life in the months before she allegedly killed her daughter.
Posts dating back to September 2024 depict a series of loving family photographs showing a smiling Sophia Rose dancing in a blush-coloured lace and tulle dress and bows in her hair.
Jump forward to May 2025, the next series of posts becomes increasingly intense, with evangelical messages about a "Kingdom Rising" and walking into battle "clothed in fire. Covered in grace. Armored by God."
The final post calls on others to "train like it's war" because "God is calling His army out of hiding."
"Tag your generals. It's time to RISE".
The Queensland Police Service won't say whether the social media posts were being investigated as the matter is now before the coroner.
A beachside toy library, where children can borrow buckets and spades to play in the sand, has become a memorial to her.
Flowers, soft toys, and handwritten poems remain.
The community around Moore Park Beach is still searching for answers about how such a tragedy could happen on their quiet suburban street.”
Life seemed picture perfect for Lauren Flanigan and her young daughter, Sophia Rose — until the day the three-year-old with the beaming smile was allegedly murdered by her mother. It's left a family shattered and a community reeling.
Dad’s heartbreak ahead of the funeral of Sophia Rose
26 July 2025
“Sophia Rose – the little girl who was stabbed to death by her mother in Queensland – will be farewelled at a funeral today with her father Jai sharing this emotional tribute.
“Instead of celebrating Sophia’s fourth birthday, we’re having a funeral,” he said.
“A funeral that shouldn’t be happening, as there is supposed to be systems in place to protect children but that clearly failed.”