Grief turns to blame as Theo’s death fractures Summer Bay—while justice closes in on Councillor Wendell

Theo’s Heroic Death Leaves Leah Broken

The death of Theo Poulos continues to send shockwaves through Summer Bay, and this week’s episodes will show how deep the emotional damage runs. After sacrificing himself to save his girlfriend, Lacey, from being deliberately run down by Councillor Craig Wendell, Theo’s loved ones are shattered—and none more so than Leah Patterson.

Banned from the funeral by Theo’s grieving mother, Cassandra, Leah spirals into guilt and isolation. She blames herself for not stopping Theo’s relationship with Lacey and becomes consumed by memories of their final exchange.

Justin, ever supportive, offers a shoulder to lean on, even vowing not to attend the funeral if Leah can’t. But even as he encourages grief counseling and alternative ways to honor Theo, Leah remains shut down and full of shame.

Grief Collides With Rage

Meanwhile, Lacey is also grappling with guilt, mourning Theo from a distance. A beachside conversation with Sonny shows just how broken she feels, insisting she doesn’t deserve comfort.

Back at home, Leah eventually agrees to a small gathering to honor Theo. Alf and Marilyn help lift her spirits, and a small group—including Eden and Remi—shares stories and laughter, helping Leah breathe again.

But when Sonny receives Leah’s invitation and encourages Lacey to attend, everything unravels.

Lacey shows up at Leah’s house—only to be met with cold fury. Leah lashes out, telling Lacey she will never forgive her for Theo’s death. The mood turns, and Sonny gently escorts a devastated Lacey away. The gathering continues, but the emotional scars are far from healed.

David Hunts Down Theo’s Killer

While the community mourns, David and Cash zero in on the man responsible. Staking out Theo’s funeral, the officers spot Wendell’s vehicle and initiate a high-speed chase, ending in a tense foot pursuit.

When David pins Wendell against a wall, Cash is forced to intervene, reminding his partner what’s at stake. Back at the station, investigators find Wendell’s damaged vehicle—confirming his involvement in Theo’s death. But David wants more. He needs a confession to connect Wendell to the earlier murder of his wife.

Wendell stonewalls the interrogation, answering with “no comment” while David teeters on the edge, punching lockers in frustration.

Lacey Rejected, Justice Approaches

Later, Cash breaks the news to Lacey: Wendell has been arrested. Hopeful, she heads to Leah’s to share the breakthrough—but her arrival is met with heartbreak.

Leah’s grief morphs into fury, and her harsh words cut deep. Lacey leaves in tears, once again isolated, while Justin holds Leah through the storm.