Homicide Squad detectives are re-appealing for information after a firearm linked to the murder of Wellington resident, Frank Smith, was located.
About 4.30pm on Monday 27 April 2020, police were called to Wellington Base Hospital after a man presented with a gunshot wound to his abdomen.
Despite the efforts of hospital staff, the man was unable to be revived.
The man was formally identified as 48-year-old Wellington resident, Frank Smith.
Initial inquiries were conducted by officers from Orana Mid-Western Police District before detectives from the State Crime Command's Homicide Squad took carriage of the investigation under Strike Force Libani.
Following several public appeals for information, detectives recently located a gun near Wellington.
A subsequent ballistic examination linked the weapon to the murder of Mr Smith.
Homicide Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent Danny Doherty, thanked those in the local community who have already come forward and spoken to police.
"Strike Force Libani detectives have seized significant physical and forensic evidence over the past 14 months since Frank's murder," Det Supt Doherty said.
"The firearm that was recently located has now been linked to the shooting of Frank and is currently undergoing further forensic and DNA testing.
"This is a significant step forward for detectives in this investigation and we would urge anyone who is yet to come forward to speak with police. This may be your last opportunity before officers come knocking," Det Supt Doherty said.
Investigations under Strike Force Libani are continuing.
Anyone with information that may assist Strike Force Libani detectives is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
