The elderly man accused of killing a fellow aged care resident in Brisbane’s northern suburbs will be released without bail to his former care team.
Thomas Raymond Pryce, 84, was charged with manslaughter following the death of 78-year-old Alan Williams, a fellow resident, at Regis Aspley on Albany Creek Rd.
The pair allegedly fought on February 21 at the aged care facility, with matters escalating when Mr Pryce pushed Mr Williams.
Mr Williams suffered life-threatening head injuries and died in hospital two days later.
Mr Pryce was first called to court on March 26 but did not appear in person; his stepdaughter appeared on his behalf.
At the time, his lawyer Joshua Tiffin sought to have Mr Pryce released into the community; however, he withdrew the application midway through proceedings to gather further information on Mr Pryce’s care and residential status.
The case was subsequently adjourned to Wednesday, April 1.
Mr Pryce was absent again on Wednesday when Mr Tiffin and his stepdaughter appeared on his behalf.
“The (bail application) material will explain his absence,” Mr Tiffin assured.
Mr Tiffin applied for Mr Pryce’s release under section 11A of the Bail Act, which allows a person to go at large if the court considers them to have an “impaired mind”.
“(We now have) confirmation from Mr Pryce’s aged care facility where he is currently being held,” Mr Tiffin told the court.
The prosecution did not oppose the application.
The court was told Mr Pryce suffered severely from “advanced Alzheimer’s dementia” and was in a physically frail state.
Previously, the court was told Mr Pryce spent time as a patient at the Prince Charles Hospital dementia ward and was residing in a “secure, locked” dementia ward at Regis Aspley at the time of the alleged altercation.
Mr Moloney granted Mr Pryce’s release on the condition he return to the care of Regis Aspley as a resident of their dementia ward.
“I’m satisfied he has an impairment of the mind which is attributable to a cognitive and neurological impairment or a combination of both,” Mr Moloney said.
“He is a permanent resident in the secure, that is locked, care dementia ward of the aged care facility he resides at.
“It results in a substantial reduction in his capacities, communication, and social interaction.
“In being satisfied of that the court may release the person without bail.”
Mr Tiffin questioned whether Mr Pryce should instead be released into the care of his stepdaughter; however, Mr Moloney denied his request.
“The seriousness of the charge and the fact that he’s in a secure facility is one of the reasons I made the order,” Mr Moloney said.
“If that were to change, he will have to come back and get the court’s permission for that (change).”
A Regis Aspley spokeswoman said the organisation remained committed to its residents.
“We are aware of the matter and will continue to assist Queensland Police as required,” they said.
“Our focus remains on the care, safety and wellbeing of all residents, and our thoughts are with everyone involved and their families.
“As this matter is before the court, we will be making no further comment at this time.”
A postponed warrant for Mr Pryce’s arrest was recalled and cancelled.
The matter was adjourned to April 27, 2026.
Mr Tiffin further indicated that he would apply to have the matter moved to the Mental Health Court.
