Mum may never face trial over 10yo’s death

A Gold Coast mother who allegedly slashed the throat of her 10-year-old daughter may never face trial due to her mental illness.

Yingying Xu, 46, has been charged with murdering Sophie at the family’s Emerald Lakes home on Tuesday night.

However, legal sources told the Courier Mail Yingying Xu could be dealt with by the Mental Health Court.

The court determines whether people with alleged mental illness are fit to be prosecuted, meaning Ms Xu may never face a trial.

Bizarre TikTok videos – believed to be posted by Ms Xu – have been circulating on social media in recent days.

In one since-deleted video, a user calling herself uxyingyingemily, said she recently felt that the “the devil Satan has been telling me that he has been influencing … interfering with my soul”.

“Then he will take 100 per cent captive, occupy my soul and go to the end of times,” she said.

Gold Coast Police have since confirmed they will be looking into Xu’s social media activity as part of their investigation.

The horrific incident came to light after emergency services were called to the Emerald Lakes home in Carrara just after 6pm on Tuesday.

Sophie’s father called paramedics after finding his daughter seriously injured.

Paramedics attempted to revive the Emmanuel College year 5 student but she was declared dead at the scene.

Detective Acting Inspector Kent Ellis said the scene was “incredibly confronting”.

Staff from the Queensland Police Service and paramedics will be provided with professional support.

“In my 15-year career as a detective it’s one of the most confronting scenes I have seen,” he said at a press conference on Wednesday morning.

Sophie’s school Emmanuel College hosted a service to pay tribute to her on Friday morning.

A candlelight vigil will also be held in Emerald Lakes on Friday afternoon.

Emmanuel College sent out a letter to students and parents informing them of Sophie’s death on Wednesday morning.

“It is with a heavy heart that I inform you of a tragic incident that occurred in a home within Emerald Lakes last night, resulting in the passing of one of our beloved students,” the letter said.

“We are devastated by this incident and know it will profoundly impact our school community.

“Our prayers go out to the family and friends of the child, and we extend our deepest condolences to all those affected by this tragedy.”

Counselling will reportedly be available for students at the school.

“Our priority is the wellbeing of our students and staff, and we will do everything possible to help our community over the coming days,” he said.

“Please be assured we are here for all in our community – students, staff and parents – and these support services are available to anyone in need.

“While words cannot ease the shock and pain of such a tragic loss, please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all.”