Brian Earl Johnston jailed for life after pleading guilty to the murder of estranged wife Kelly Wilkinson
In a tragic tale of domestic violence that shook the Gold Coast community, Brian Earl Johnston, aged 37, received a mandatory life sentence for the brutal murder of his estranged wife, Kelly Wilkinson, in April 2021. Wilkinson’s body was discovered in her Arundel backyard, having suffered from multiple stab wounds before being set ablaze.
The couple’s tumultuous 10-year relationship, which began online and led to marriage in the United States, ended with Wilkinson seeking protection through a domestic violence order (DVO) against Johnston. Despite the DVO and Johnston being on bail for other alleged offences against Wilkinson, the violence culminated in her death.
The court heard harrowing details of the murder, including how Johnston, assisted by an alleged accomplice, executed the attack in the early hours, leading to Wilkinson’s death from the effects of fire. The emotional impact of Wilkinson’s murder on her family was palpable in court, with her sister delivering a statement that highlighted the immense pain and suffering Johnston caused.
This case underscores the devastating impact of domestic violence and the need for continued vigilance and support for victims. Johnston’s life sentence offers a measure of justice, but as Wilkinson’s sister poignantly noted, the family’s journey of grief and loss is far from over.
