Murder charge in mum mystery

Missing jogger breakthrough

Police have charged a 22-yearold man with the murder of missing Ballarat mum Samantha Murphy.

Police on Thursday afternoon said the 22-year-old, from Scotsburn, near Ballarat, had been charged with murder.

Detective Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt, Crime Command, said: “Our thoughts today are with Samantha’s family and friends.”

Mick Murphy, Samantha’s husband, issued an emotional statement after the charge was laid.

“They’ve charged the 22year-old,” Mr Murphy told the media, his voice shaking.

Mr Murphy said it had been challenging maintaining a stoic appearance while he and his family waited for news about his wife (pictured).

“God, the adrenaline with everything that’s been going on, trying to be brave for everybody. It’s something you wouldn’t want anyone to experience,” Mr Murphy said.

Mr Murphy said he was relieved at the latest news from detectives.

“It’s like someone’s just pulled a pressure valve,” he said. “It hasn’t been good for a while, nearly five weeks, but we’re doing as good as we can.”

Mr Murphy went on to thank the “unbelievable” Ballarat community.

“The generosity and support from the community has been just overwhelming,” he said before returning into his house to be with his family.

Police are yet to recover Ms Murphy’s body, with investigations still ongoing.

The 22-year-old, who was arrested at his home shortly after 6am on Wednesday morning. was to face Ballarat Magistrates’ Court on Thursday afternoon.

Speaking after the arrest, Superintendent Hatt said: “Since Samantha’s disappearance at the start of February, a significant search and investigation has been undertaken in an effort to find her.

“This has included a dedicated and committed investigative effort led by the Missing Persons squad and also involving detectives from right across Crime Command, Counter Terrorism Command and Western Region.

“This has been further supported by a range of specialist resources from across Victoria Police.

“To get to a position where we have been able to charge someone is testament to the commitment and dedication from all those areas.

“We have also had exceptional support from many people in the Ballarat community, particularly local search volunteers and members of the SES and CFA.

“I know that Samantha’s disappearance has had a profound impact on the Ballarat community and I want to thank all of those people who have assisted police in many different ways over the past month.”