ACT Policing has uncovered important new information which indicates a possible link between two Canberra crime scenes, some 12 years apart, which may assist in solving the 1999 murder of McKellar woman Irma Palasics.
While the two crimes appear unrelated, police are releasing CCTV footage of an aggravated burglary which occurred in Phillip around 1.50am on Sunday, May 16 2010 in the hope of identifying those involved, and interviewing them.
The CCTV footage shows a group of teenagers break into the Pitch & Putt golf course in Irving St, Phillip by charging at the metal roller door of the storage area.
The male youths forced the roller door from its frame causing it to fall inside the premises.
Police believe one of the four young men involved in the Pitch & Putt burglary in 2010 may be able to provide information crucial to revitalising the Palasics homicide investigation. At this time, ACT Policing is unable to reveal the nature of the new information indicating a possible link between the crimes at this time to protect the integrity of the investigation
The Palasics murder is one of six major unsolved homicides in the ACT.
Around 9.30pm on Saturday, November 6, 1999, two men forced their way into the Palasics’ home. The elderly couple were bound and savagely beaten before the intruders ransacked the home, stealing cash and jewellery. Gregor managed to free himself and phone police however, the injuries suffered by his wife were too severe and she died at the scene.
ACT Policing is releasing the two-year-old CCTV footage of the Pitch and Putt golf course burglary in the hope that those involved, or anyone who recognises them, will contact police to assist with their investigation into the murder of Irma Palasics on November 6 1999.
Anyone who can assist is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or www.act.crimestoppers.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.