Second Suspect Charged in North Nowra Homicide Investigation
A second man has been formally charged with murder in connection with the death of a man discovered with severe injuries on a rural property in regional New South Wales. The development comes more than a year after the initial incident, marking a significant step in the ongoing police investigation.
Discovery of the Victim and Initial Response
The victim, a 60-year-old man, was found on a fire trail on a rural property located on McMahons Road in North Nowra on December 9, 2024. The location was near a gas pipeline clearing. He had sustained serious injuries and, despite the urgent efforts of paramedics, died before he could be transported to a hospital for treatment.
Recent Arrests and Charges
On Friday, police arrested a 58-year-old man at a residence in North Nowra. He has been charged with murder and common assault. The suspect appeared before the Bail Division Court on Saturday, where he did not apply for bail and was formally remanded into police custody.
This arrest follows the earlier apprehension of a 29-year-old man at a home in the same suburb on Monday. That individual faces charges of murder along with a series of unrelated offences. These additional charges include supply of a prohibited drug on an ongoing basis, driving while disqualified, and breaking and entering.
Police Investigation Details
NSW Police Inspector Cath Flood provided insights into the case, stating that the victim was allegedly attacked following a fight near the location where he was discovered. "There was an altercation, that altercation is being investigated with that ongoing matter," Inspector Flood remarked on Tuesday.
Authorities are continuing to investigate reports of a woman seen leaving the area in a vehicle. Inspector Flood confirmed that police had previously had dealings with the 29-year-old suspect but not with the victim. Notably, no weapon was used in the attack, and the motive behind the incident remains unclear at this stage.
The victim had been visiting the rural property to see a man who resided at the home. Inspector Flood clarified that the homeowner is not under investigation and has been cooperative, assisting police with their inquiries.
Timeline and Community Appeal
Inspector Flood acknowledged that the investigation has been extensive and time-consuming but emphasized the dedication of the police force. "We've been in touch with the family of the victim right throughout the investigation and they understand that it has been an extensive investigation and, as you know, that matters of such a serious nature do take time," she stated.
Police are urging anyone in the community with further information about the incident to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.
