A Norwegian man faces murder charges for the deaths of his wife and their three-year-old daughter. The tragedy unfolded in Gjerdrum, a municipality northeast of Oslo known for its quiet residential areas.
Anette Prydz Sjursen, 34, was found dead in her home on December 12. Her young daughter May Elin suffered severe injuries during the same incident. The child died from her wounds five days later at a hospital.
Police arrested the 40-year-old husband at the scene on December 13. He reportedly called authorities himself to report the incident. The man has admitted to causing both deaths but does not accept criminal guilt.
Court documents state he first suffocated his wife, then attacked their daughter. The child succumbed to her injuries on December 17.
The accused has remained in custody since his arrest. Forensic psychiatrists conducted a months-long evaluation and concluded he was not psychotic during the events. Their report indicates concern about repeat offense risk.
Gjerdrum gained international attention in 2020 when a massive landslide destroyed homes and displaced hundreds. This latest tragedy has shaken the small community again. Domestic violence cases often reveal complex family dynamics that escape public view until tragedy strikes.