Homicide squad detectives are appealing for help in their investigation into the death of a Mernda man in February.
Thomas Benjamin O’Connell was found in a burnt-out car just off the Hume Freeway in Wandong about 3.50am on Friday, February 5.
The 2011 white Kia Cerato hatch was found in bushland on the western side of the freeway, about one kilometre north of the Arkells Road overpass.
The homicide squad has taken over the investigation into Mr O’Connell’s death and has established that he was last seen alive at 10.40pm on Thursday, February 4 in the Mernda area.
Detectives believe that he was killed prior to the car fire.
Detective Senior Sergeant Stuart Bailey said investigators were trying to piece together what happened in the lead up to the car fire.
“We are keen to establish what Mr O’Connell was doing from when he was last seen at 10.40pm on Thursday to the following day when his body was located in the burnt out car at 3.50am,” he said.
Police would like to speak to anyone who was travelling on the Hume Freeway between Craigieburn and Wandong, in either direction, between 3-4am on February 5.
Investigators believe a second vehicle would have been required to transport the offender/s from the location where the body was discovered.
“We are particularly interested in anyone who may have dashboard cameras fitted in their vehicles or who may have witness a white 2011 Kia Cerato hatch travelling on the Hume Freeway between these times,” Detective Senior Sergeant Bailey said.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimstoppersvic.com.au
