A PROMISING Tasmanian model and university student fought to fend off her ex-boyfriend before he fatally stabbed her and took his own life.

Police believe Sammi Hewitt, 24, and Kuol Piom, 29, had been arguing over the weekend about the status of their long-term relationship.

The disagreement turned violent when Ms Hewitt, who was a student at the University of Tasmania, Australia, visited Mr Piom at his rented home in Hobart on Monday.

Ms Hewitt's mother contacted police when her daughter did not respond to phone calls.

Officers later found the pair's bodies in the decrepit house.

The furniture was in disarray and several items broken, suggesting that there had been a struggle. The door to the house had also been barricaded.

Ms Hewitt had suffered several stab wounds to her abdomen and her hands, which indicated she had tried to defend herself.

Mr Piom was found dead at the rear of the house

Detective Inspector Peter Powell said the evidence suggested he had committed suicide.

UTAS Acting Vice-Chancellor David Rich said the university was in shock and extended his condolences to the families.

He said counselling was being provided to students and staff at the campus.

"Our emphasis is on ensuring our students and staff have the support they need at this time," he said.



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