Commissioner Col Blanch seeking approval from Bombara and Petelczyc families before release of police probe

WA’s top cop is awaiting permission from the families at the centre of the Floreat double murder before he can release a report investigating any wrongdoing by police. Police Commissioner Col Blanch ordered the internal investigation in late May after Mark Bombara, 63, shot dead Jennifer Petelczyc and her 18-year-old daughter Gretl inside their Floreat home. Bombara was hunting his estranged wife and daughter Ariel when he forced his way into the Petelczyc’s property on May 24. Jennifer Petelczyc was a friend of Bombara’s estranged wife. The 63-year-old turned his gun on himself before police arrived at the scene. On Wednesday, Mr Blanch said he was seeking final permissions before the internal inquiry could be released. “I’ve spoken to the deputy coroner, I’ve got a meeting today with the Ombudsman of Western Australia, the CCC has written back to me, and I’m still waiting for the families’ response into releasing that,” he said. Mr Blanch has not confirmed whether it will be released publicly. “So, the report is pretty much finalised, I’m just waiting for the four permissions before I release it.” Ariel Bombara bravely spoke out after the incident and claimed she and her mother had repeatedly warned police officers her father owned guns and was dangerous. “We were ignored by five different male officers across three occasions of reporting,” Ms Bombara said at the time. “My father should always be considered accountable for his actions. They were his and his alone, however, there are authorities who should have helped us to stop him and they failed.” Mr Blanch told morning Radio in October that there was “no doubt” the coroner would hold an inquest into the murders. “But probably the most important view I must seek is from the Coroner, who will no doubt hold an inquest. So she will have a strong view as to when and where we release information but I’m happy to have that conversation.” If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, phone 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) or the Crisis Care Helpline on 1800 199 008.