Homicide investigation underway after suspicious death of woman in Coogee

Police are appealing for public assistance as they continue to investigate the suspicious death of a woman in Sydney’s east earlier this week.

Officers from Eastern Beaches Police Area Command were called to a unit on Mount Street, Coogee, about 10am on Tuesday (14 January 2020), after the body of a woman was found inside.

A post mortem examination has been conducted, however, further tests are required to determine how she died.

The woman has since been formally identified as 69-year-old Kimberley McRae.

Kimberley lived alone and did not own a vehicle but was known to walk and exercise in the local area.

Detectives from the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad have established Strike Force Onshore to investigate the circumstances surrounding her death.

Homicide Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent Danny Doherty, said investigators are appealing for public assistance from the community to establish Kimberley’s movements over the past two weeks.

“At this stage, the last known sighting of Kimberley, also known as Kim, was Tuesday 7 January 2020, when she was seen at her Coogee unit,” Det Supt Doherty said.

“Phone records show her mobile phone was in use the following afternoon (Wednesday 8 January 2020).

“Her exact movements from the last time she was seen last Tuesday and when her body was found seven days later is unclear.

“Kim had a distinct personal style with recognisable features and a wide circle of associates.

“She was known to run along the foreshore and Coogee stairs in the evenings.”

Police are keen to speak with any of Kim’s friends or associates, who may have visited her and have yet to come forward.

“Investigators are aware Kim worked in the sex industry and may be known to some of her associates as Isabella, Samantha and Sabrina,” Det Supt Doherty said.

“Of course, we’d be keen to speak to anyone who has information or knowledge of Kim’s social activities.

“The community should be reassured that any information they provide will be treated confidentially and with sensitivity.”

Police are urging anyone with information that may assist Strike Force Onshore detectives to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/ Information you provide will be treated in the strictest of confidence. We remind people they should not report crime information via our social media pages.

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