Police from Water Operations Unit are today searching an area known as the Mutton Cove Conservation Reserve at Osborne as part of the ongoing investigation into the murder of Rosemary Brown and suspected murder of her 15 year old daughter, Melissa Trussell.
New information received from members of the public, including the sighting of a blue Ford XD Falcon sedan in that area in the days after the disappearance of Rosemary and Melissa, have led to the fresh search.
This is the third search undertaken as part of the renewed investigation with today's search area in the Mersey Road North vicinity not previously examined by police. Two previous searches have been at nearby Garden Island.
Police are continuing to investigate leads in relation to the second suspect vehicle, a fawn coloured Holden VB Commodore sedan with distinctive brown trim on the lower part of the vehicle, which may have been disposed of in the Murray Bridge area after the disapearance of Rosemary and Melissa in 2000.
Major Crime Investigation Branch detectives are grateful for the volume of information that has been provided by the community in response to this investigation.
Police are urging anyone who previously provided specific information about the Ford XD Falcon or the Holden VB Commodore to recontact Crime Stoppers. Callers can be connected with a Major Crime detective to discuss their information further. If a caller prefers to remain anonymous, they can continue to share additional details through Crime Stoppers.
Major Crime Investigation Branch officer-in-charge Detective Superintendent Darren Fielke said detectives were actively pursuing several leads stemming from information provided to Crime Stoppers.
"Every piece of information brings us closer to identifying those responsible for what happened to Rosemary and Melissa,'' he said.
"This remains a deeply disturbing and unresolved case, and our investigation will not cease until those responsible are held to account and the Brown and Trussell families receive the answers they deserve.
"Rewards are on offer in relation to this investigation, which may be life changing for those who have information that can assist.''
Up to $1,000,000 will be paid to anyone who provides information and assistance that leads to the conviction of the person or persons responsible for the suspected murder of Melissa Trussell (Brown) (and/or leading to the location and recovery of her remains).
Up to $200,000 will be paid to anyone who provides information and assistance that leads to the conviction of the person or persons responsible for the suspected murder of Rosemary Brown."
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au – you can remain anonymous.
