Detectives have charged the estranged husband of Karen Gilliland with murder after she was allegedly stabbed at her home at Rockhampton in central Queensland.
Neighbours and emergency workers tried to save the 42-year-old on Tuesday night, but she died at the scene with wounds to her neck and stomach.
Nigel Gilliland allegedly fled the scene and was taken into custody two hours later after a large-scale search involving the dog squad.
He was taken to hospital in a serious condition, with a stab wound to his arm, and underwent surgery yesterday.
He had been under police guard at the hospital and was this morning charged with one count each of murder (domestic violence offence) and entering a dwelling with intent.
Mr Gilliland, a 45-year-old from the Rockhampton suburb of Wandal, was later remanded in custody by the Rockhampton Magistrates Court.
The case is due to return to court in August.
Ms Gilliland, a mother-of-three, had worked in pathology at the Rockhampton Hospital with friend Lauren Cavanagh.
Ms Cavanagh wrote on social media that she had been taken under Ms Gilliland's wing.
"My ... mumma bear," she said.
"You quickly went from being my supervisor to a dear friend.
"You were such a strong and brave woman, taking on everything with such a positive outlook.
"No problem ever seemed too big for you to solve.
"Things just won't be the same without you — you will forever be in our hearts."
Friend Tricia Whitlock said she first met Ms Gilliland six years ago when their sons were in the same class at school.
"Karen was one of the most caring and welcoming souls I've ever met," she said.
"Her high morals and careful perception of life and the world was something she took absolute pride in instilling in her children.
"Her contagious smile will be forever missed but never forgotten."
