A heartbroken mother has spoken in court about the final days of her daughter’s life. Her daughter, 21-year-old Mackenzie Anderson, was brutally stabbed 78 times by her ex-boyfriend in March 2022. The victim’s mother, Tabitha Acret, described Mackenzie’s final moments as filled with a “fear no human should ever know.”
This week, the Newcastle Supreme Court in New South Wales heard victim impact statements from Acret. She explained how her daughter had sought help repeatedly, fearing for her life. The tragedy unfolded just 16 days after the accused, 25-year-old Tyrone Thompson, was released on parole. He had previously served time for violent offences against Anderson.
According to court evidence, Thompson broke into Anderson’s apartment on the night of March 25. Between 10:48 p.m. and 10:50 p.m., he launched a vicious attack using two kitchen knives.
Before the stabbing, Anderson had called emergency services several times to report Thompson’s intrusion. Still, help arrived too late. A male friend of the victim reportedly saw the horrifying moment when Thompson stood over Anderson, stabbing her repeatedly.
Acret recalled returning to the apartment after the crime scene was cleaned. Despite no blood being visible, the space still carried signs of brutality. Digital records later revealed emails Anderson had sent to domestic violence support groups. She had begged for help, asking for security cameras and reinforced doors.
“She knew he would kill her,” Acret said in court. “She lived in constant fear.” Yet, the system that failed her ignored her warnings. One support agency replied to her email only after her death closing her request for assistance.
Acret added that Mackenzie had even asked for a new knife set for Christmas. Tragically, one of those knives was allegedly used in the fatal attack.
The suspect reportedly admitted to the killing. He claimed the couple argued, and that Anderson had a knife which he grabbed. He then attacked her until “she f—— stopped,” according to police statements.
Thompson has been in custody since March 2022. He recently submitted a letter of remorse to the court. His lawyers noted that he suffers from a complex mix of PTSD and personality disorders.
Still, for Acret, that explanation brings no peace. “Along with grief, there’s immense guilt,” she said. “I didn’t realize how deep the abuse ran until days before she died.”
Mackenzie tried to protect herself. She reached out. She pleaded. But no one listened. In the end, it was the system that failed her—again and again.
As the trial continues, Anderson’s family seeks justice, not only for Mackenzie but for all women let down by the system that failed her.
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