Adelaide physiotherapist charged with murder of wife and attempted murder of daughter

Adelaide’s Campbelltown neighbourhood was shaken by a devastating shooting incident that resulted in the death of a Greek Australian woman and left her daughter seriously injured.

Police responded to distressing reports on Saturday afternoon. Gunshots were heard, and witnesses saw two women collapsed on the driveway of a residence on Elm Road. Swift action was taken as officers arrived at the scene to discover the lifeless body of Aleksandra Vergulis, 51.

Neigbours immediately sprang into action, performing CPR on Aleksandra and Daniela, all while physiotherapist Vasilis Vergulis stood nearby.

The couple’s daughter, Daniela Vergulis, 22, was found with severe injuries and promptly rushed to the Royal Adelaide Hospital where she remains in stable condition.

The incident also led to a tense standoff between the armed suspect who had barricaded himself inside the residence and the police, lasting several hours.

In response, the STAR Group officers cordoned off nearby streets, including Hill Street and Victor Road to protect the community.

Residents in the vicinity were promptly evacuated, while those outside were urged to remain indoors. Negotiations with the suspect commenced, stretching over a significant period. Ultimately, Vasili Vergulis, 51, surrendered to the authorities at approximately 5.10pm.

He has now been charged with murder and attempted murder, marking a solemn turn of events.

The suspect did not seek bail and is set to appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court on Monday. Detectives have continued their investigation, meticulously gathering evidence at the scene.

As the police presence lingers on Elm Road, the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragic event.

In a later report Hayley Duff, a witness, mentioned that both mother and daughter were holding shopping bags upon their return from a shopping trip. Another witness, Tony, told The Advertiser he saw investigators bringing out “assault-type rifles” and “multiple handguns” from the residence.

The investigation continues, seeking answers and providing support to the affected family.