Wellesley Mother Indicted on Two Counts of First-Degree Murder in Deaths of Her Children

WELLESLEY, Mass. — A Norfolk County grand jury has indicted Janette MacAusland in connection with the deaths of her two young children, advancing a case that has drawn significant attention across Massachusetts.

MacAusland, 49, was indicted Monday, October 19, on two counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of her children, Kai MacAusland, 7, and Ella MacAusland, 6, according to reports published October 20 by Boston 25 News and WCVB.

The children were found dead inside their family’s Wellesley home on Edgemoor Avenue on April 24, 2026, after police conducted a welfare check.

Arrest followed events in Vermont

Authorities say MacAusland traveled to her aunt’s home in Bennington, Vermont, following the children’s deaths. Vermont police became concerned after encountering her with a visible neck injury and contacted Massachusetts authorities.

According to police reports cited by news outlets, MacAusland allegedly made statements indicating that she had killed her children. She was subsequently arrested in Vermont and held while arrangements were made for her return to Massachusetts.

Case moves forward

The indictment follows months of legal proceedings. MacAusland had previously faced two murder charges, and her attorney sought dismissal of the case during a September court hearing. The judge denied that request, according to earlier reporting by Boston 25 News.

Court records also indicate that MacAusland and the children’s father were involved in divorce and custody proceedings at the time of the deaths.

The children attended Schofield Elementary School in Wellesley. School officials previously expressed grief over their deaths and said the loss deeply affected the school community.

As the case moves forward, MacAusland is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

This is a developing story. Plimoth Today will continue to follow significant updates as additional information becomes available.

Source: Boston 25 News — Wellesley mom indicted in deaths of two children. Additional reporting: WCVB.