Police delve into Kelly death DNA

POLICE are still working through DNA evidence obtained after a Gold Coast mum-of-three was set on fire in her backyard, a court was told.

The large amount of evidence means the matter will not return to court for another three months.

Brian Earl Johnston did not appear in Southport Magistrates Court when his matter was mentioned on Friday morning.

He is charged with murder and breaching a domestic violence order.

It is alleged Johnston, 34, set the fire to young mum-of-three Kelly Wilkinson, 27, in her Arundel backyard on April 20.

Neighbours alerted police at 6.40am after hearing “raised voices” and a commotion at the Spikes Ct property at Arundel.

Police found Ms Wilkinson dead in the backyard.

It is alleged Johnston poured petrol on Ms Wilkinson before setting her alight in front of their children.

The ex-marine allegedly fled the Arundel home, leaving behind a blood trail, and was found at a nearby Langer Place property. A jerry can and two knives were found at the scene.

Defence lawyer Farshad Sarabi, of Hannay Lawyers, told the court on Friday they had been given the brief of evidence and a “couple of elements were missing”.

He said it was a large brief. Prosecutor Trudy Jobbins said police had also obtained DNA evidence which was being analysed.

Magistrate Michelle Dooley said: “So there is a bit to be done.”

She adjourned the matter to October 15 for mention.

This month, Johnston’s lawyer Chris Hannay, of Hannay Lawyers, said the former US marine would not apply for bail due to concerns for his safety.

“He has not asked for a bail application because of concerns for his safety,” he said.

Ms Wilkinson’s death enraged the community. The construction industry united to build a home for Ms Wilkinson’s children and her sister’s family.

Ms Wilkinson’s children are living with her sister and her five children.