Detectives from the Homicide Cold Case Investigation Team (CCIT) have obtained an arrest warrant for a 70-year-old man in relation to the 1997 murder of Meaghan Louise Rose on the Sunshine Coast.
On 18 July 1997, 25-year-old Meaghan Rose was located deceased at the base of Point Cartwright Cliffs at Mooloolaba.
Her vehicle which contained a number of personal items was located at the top of the cliffs.
Initial investigations suggested her death was non-suspicious, however new information came to light revealing suspicious circumstances, including a life insurance policy which was taken out prior to her death.
Homicide CCIT detectives re-examining the case, attended a Victorian address on June 25 to speak to 70-year-old Keith Lees in relation to the ongoing investigation. (Photo 1)
The following the day, June 26, his vehicle was located abandoned at Portland, with Victoria Police commencing a search and rescue operation.
Mr Lees provided a false name when spoken to by police later that day in Port Fairy, Victoria.
QPS investigations with the assistance of Victoria Police, have identified that Mr Lees was seen at a Waurn Ponds shopping centre on June 27 where he purchased new clothes.
He was further sighted leaving Shepparton Train Station on June 27 (Photo 2). He was also seen wearing a distinctive black and white jacket (Photo 3).
Information indicates he may be seeking casual work in the farming and fruit picking industries.
While investigations remain ongoing into his current whereabouts, it is believed he could still be in Victoria, or have travelled interstate.
It will be alleged Keith Lees was known to Meaghan Louise Rose.
Detectives are appealing Keith Lees to come forward, and to the public for anyone with information regarding his whereabouts to immediately contact police.
Anyone who may sight him, is asked to not approach him and immediately call Triple Zero (000). For no urgent information, please contact Crimestoppers.
A $500,000 reward remains active for information which leads to the apprehension and conviction of the person or persons responsible for Meaghan’s murder. The Government reward further offers an opportunity for indemnity against prosecution for any accomplice, not being the person who actually committed the murder, who first gives such information.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
