A cold case investigation into the murder of a woman in Queensland 26 years ago has a Shepparton link for a man who police want to speak to about the murder.
Detectives from Queensland’s Homicide Cold Case Investigation Team have obtained an arrest warrant for a 70-year-old man in relation to the 1997 murder of Meaghan Louise Rose on the Sunshine Coast.
On July 18, 1997, Ms Rose, 25, was found dead at the base of Point Cartwright Cliffs at Mooloolaba on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.
Her vehicle, which contained several personal items, was located at the top of the cliffs.
Initial investigations by police suggested her death was non-suspicious, however, new information has come to light revealing suspicious circumstances, including a life insurance policy which was taken out prior to her death, police said.
Detectives re-examining the case, went to a Victorian address on June 25 this year to speak to 70-year-old Keith Lees about the ongoing investigation.
The following day his vehicle was located abandoned at Portland, with Victoria Police starting a search and rescue operation.
Mr Lees allegedly provided a false name when spoken to by police later that day in Port Fairy.
Queensland Police, with the assistance of Victoria Police, have identified that Mr Lees was seen at a Waurn Ponds shopping centre at Geelong on June 27.
He was further sighted leaving Shepparton train station on June 27.
Police information indicates he may be seeking casual work in the farming and fruit picking industries.
While investigations remain ongoing into his current whereabouts, it is believed he could still be in Victoria, or have travelled interstate, police said.
It will be alleged Keith Lees was known to Ms Rose.
Detectives are appealing for Mr Lees to come forward, and to the public for anyone with information regarding his whereabouts to immediately contact police.
Anyone who sees him is asked to not approach him and immediately call 000.
For non-urgent information, contact Crime Stoppers on 1300 333 000 or online at crimestoppersvic.com.au