Detectives are appealing for information as investigations continue under Strike Force Areegra after a woman was found deceased following a unit fire in Bateau Bay last month.
Emergency services were called to a unit block on Melissa Close, Bateau Bay, about 9.30pm on Sunday 24 August 2025, responding to reports of a fire.
Officers attached to Tuggerah Lakes Police District attended and found the body of a 77-year-old woman in the loungeroom of the single-level unit.
Strike Force Areegra – comprising detectives from Tuggerah Lakes Police District and assisted by State Crime Command's Homicide Squad – was established to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death, which is being treated as suspicious.
On Monday 25 August 2025, a 26-year-old man was charged with property related offences and remains before the court.
Following extensive inquiries, strike force detectives believe the woman had died at the location prior to the unit fire.
As investigations continue, strike force detectives are appealing for any information in relation to the incident that could assist in the investigation.
Anyone with information, including dashcam or CCTV, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
