Homicide Squad detectives are today announcing a $1 million reward for the murder of Antje Jones who was shot at a residential premises in St Albans more than three decades ago.
The 34-year-old’s body was discovered in her brother’s Theodore Street address about 3.20pm on 15 September, 1981.
It appears the gunman entered the house and shot Antje who was staying with her brother while visiting from Queensland.
Antje had moved from Melbourne to Queensland to live with her parents and young son after her divorce about a year earlier.
The following year police announced a $50,000 reward however no new information came to light and the case remained unsolved.
Despite an extensive investigation spanning 37 years, Antje’s killer has not been brought to justice.
Officer in Charge of the Homicide Squad, detective Inspector Andrew Stamper, said investigators believed the murder was targeted.
“It may have been 37 years since Antje was killed but our investigation never ceased,” he said.
“Over the years we have followed up a number of avenues of enquiry and we now believe one of our key persons of interest in this case may have organised for Antje to be killed.
“Antje was in Melbourne appearing as a witness in a court case for a car crash from several years earlier and decided to stay longer and take the opportunity to catch up with family and friends.
“Instead of returning home to her little boy, Antje’s life ended violently in Melbourne.”
Detective Inspector Stamper said he was hopeful that today’s reward announcement would bring forward new information.
“We know there are people out there with information to help identify Antje’s killers,” he said.
“Thirty-seven years is a long to keep a secret – people’s circumstances can change over the years and someone who may not have wanted to provide information to police previously may now feel ready to do so.
“We still believe this case is solvable and are committed to providing justice for Antje and her loved ones and bringing those responsible before the courts.”
A reward of up to $1 million will be paid at the discretion of the Chief Commissioner of Police for information leading to the apprehension and subsequent conviction of the person or persons responsible for the murder.
In appropriate cases, the Director of Public Prosecutions may consider, according to established guidelines, the granting of indemnification from prosecution to any person who provides information as to the identity of the principal offender or offenders in this matter.
Anyone with information about the murder of Antje Jones is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppers.com.au
