Homicide Squad detectives are continuing to appeal for information in relation to the murder of a Fawkner man whose body was found at Nagambie in 2000.
Police retrieved Adam Matthews’ body from the Goulburn River near the Chinaman’s Bridge Caravan Park on November 4, 2000.
The previous evening, residents of the caravan park noticed what they thought was rubbish tangled in a fallen tree, floating in the river. It was Adam’s body wrapped in a blanket.
An attempt had been made to weigh the body down with bricks.
Det Leading Senior Constable Caitlin Jones said a post-mortem examination revealed he had been violently assaulted, including being stabbed numerous times.
“Adam was last seen alive by his mother at approximately 2pm on October 24, 2000, leaving his home in Fawkner,” she said.
“He intended to be home in time for dinner and asked his mother to order Chinese food for when he returned.”
Police believe Adam was seen later that afternoon near the corner of Sydney Road and Queens Parade in Fawkner.
“Adam was one of five children and a father at the time of his death, leaving behind a family desperate for answers and justice for their loved one,” Det Leading Sen Const Jones said.
“Despite an extensive and thorough investigation, the person or persons who violently attacked and killed Adam have not been brought to justice.
“What we do know is that whoever killed Adam went to great lengths in an attempt to conceal his body.”
Det Leading Sen Const Jones said it was unclear how Adam came to be in Nagambie – detectives had been unable to establish any connection with the area.
Detectives want to hear from anyone who may have seen or heard from Adam in the weeks leading up to October 24, 2000 and onwards in order to help detectives piece together his final movements.
Police believe Adam was associated with illicit activities, which may have led to his death.
“Investigators are appealing in particular to an anonymous caller who contacted police in 2006 with information they believed could lead to an arrest,” Det Leading Sen Const Jones said.
“We appeal to this person to call Crime Stoppers and pass on this information to assist with solving this murder.
“We would also like hear from anyone who was residing or travelling in the Nagambie area during this period, specifically those who may have been near the Goulburn River, who may have witnessed any unusual or suspicious activity.”
Detectives are hopeful that with more than 20 years passing since Adam’s death, someone will be able to provide information about who was responsible for his murder and why.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
