The Ballarat community is still mourning the disappearance of 52-year-old Samantha Murphy, who vanished on February 4, 2024, during a run in Canadian Forest. With one year since her disappearance now passed, her family and friends are facing a grim milestone. Despite charges laid against a 23-year-old local man, Patrick Orren Stephenson, for her alleged murder, Samantha’s body has yet to be found. Mayor Tracey Hargreaves expressed deep sympathy for Murphy’s family, noting the widespread impact of her disappearance on the tight-knit community, which has banded together to combat violence in the wake of this tragedy.
In the past year, community support for Murphy’s loved ones has been strong, as the investigation continues. Police have stressed their commitment to locating Samantha’s remains, with extensive searches spanning various locations around Ballarat. So far, her phone and wallet were discovered near a dam, significantly south of her last known location.
Detective Inspector Dave Dunstan reaffirmed the determination of law enforcement to find her, calling attention to the profound effect her case has had not just locally but throughout Victoria. Community members and local officials are urging anyone with information to step forward as they continue to seek answers for Samantha’s family and friends.