A deceased man discovered in a river on the Sunshine Coast has been identified after more than 19 months, thanks to recognition from a news report. The police have now reached out to his family following this breakthrough. The man, 47, originally hailing from Yarram, Victoria, had relocated to the Sunshine Coast earlier in 2023.
His body was found floating in the Maroochy River by morning walkers at around 8 am on November 30, 2023. The efforts to identify him were hampered because he lacked distinguishing features such as piercings, tattoos, dental implants, or missing teeth. Furthermore, his fingerprints had not been recorded by any law enforcement agency, which added to the difficulty of the investigation.
Despite numerous public appeals, door-to-door inquiries, DNA analysis, and searches through INTERPOL, officials could not identify him. Efforts included matching the surgical nails found in his knee, yet no leads emerged until a significant breakthrough occurred. A person who had previously interacted with the man in a professional context in Maroochydore recognised him on the news and contacted the authorities.
Detective Senior Sergeant Robert Lowry expressed gratitude to the media and the public for their assistance, stating that the information led to DNA testing that confirmed the man’s identity and enabled contact with his family. He praised the detectives for their relentless efforts in the investigation.
The man’s death has been deemed non-suspicious, and a report is being compiled for the coroner. The police have since been able to notify the family, providing them with some closure after this lengthy period of uncertainty.
For those seeking support, resources such as Lifeline (13 11 14), Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636), the Suicide Call Back Service (1300 659 467), and MensLine Australia (1300 78 99 78) are available.