An arrest warrant was issued on Saturday charging MacAusland with two counts of murder, state police said. She is being held in Vermont and is expected to appear in Bennington County Superior Court on Monday on a fugitive from justice charge while extradition to Massachusetts is arranged, authorities said. The investigation began on Friday evening when Wellesley police were contacted by Vermont authorities requesting a welfare check, police said. Officers found both children deceased inside the home.
Court filings in probate proceedings show that Samuel MacAusland filed for divorce in October after nine years of marriage, seeking custody of the children and the family home. Janette MacAusland also requested custody and control of the property in her response, according to court filings. On April 16, both parties filed a joint motion to appoint a neutral third party to assess custody arrangements, and a guardian was appointed on April 21, court filings show. Janette MacAusland is an acupuncturist, according to major media reports.
Kai and Ella were students at Schofield Elementary School, attending kindergarten and second grade, the school district said. The school district said counselors will be available on Monday to support pupils and staff. Superintendent David Lussier described the situation as devastating for the local community. "This is an unimaginable loss that will be deeply felt not just at Schofield but across our entire community," Lussier said in a statement. Wellesley is an affluent Boston suburb considered one of the safest cities in America, according to a 2023 report. The causes of death have not been disclosed. Janette MacAusland does not have legal representation or attorneys have not responded to requests for comment, according to major media reports.