Clues to mystery woman
MYSTERY surrounds the identity of a woman whose body was found in Hobart’s northern suburbs on Sunday, with police launching a public appeal in an attempt to find her relatives.
The woman was found on the shores of the River Derwent near the Derwent Entertainment Centre about 10am.
She was not carrying identification and police on Monday called for assistance to identify her, releasing images of jewellery she was wearing. Senior Sergeant Ian Mathewson said no suspicious circumstances had been identified. He said the woman was aged between 60 and 80 years, of medium build with greying blonde hair and light blue eyes. She was wearing a light green woollen jumper, dark green T-shirt, grey trousers and slip-on shoes.
Sergeant Mathewson said the woman had three pieces of jewellery: a black leather watch with a gold face, a silver chain with silver pendant containing a purple stone, and a silver ring with white stones.
“There is nothing to suggest any signs of violence or anything of that regard, but the investigation is only in its infancy and we’re looking at all avenues of inquiry at this stage,’’ he said.
“The priority is to identify this lady so relatives can be informed of her passing as soon as possible.”
The results of a post-mortem examination were expected later on Monday or on Tuesday, he said. Sergeant Mathewson encouraged people to check on their elderly relatives, and for neighbours to pay a visit if they had not seen them recently.
“It’s a really sad situation,’’ he said. “We’re very keen to have this deceased woman identified, so I call upon those who live next door to elderly people they haven’t seen for some time, that meet this description, to check on (them) to see how they are.
“For relatives and friends of those in senior years that meet the description of this poor lady, please make contact to ensure your family and friends are indeed OK and fine.
“If not, and they are missing, contact Tasmania Police.”
Sergeant Mathewson said a person riding a bike had found the body and immediately went home and told relatives, who phoned police.
“It was traumatic for the young individual who happened to be riding his bicycle and came across the deceased woman,’’ he said.
If you recognise the jewellery or know anyone who may be missing that fits the description, phone Glenorchy Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.