Vehicle found in search for Melissa Trussell

The Garden Island search for the remains of Melissa Trussell has been suspended and will be continued on another day.

During the search members of the Water Operations Unit located a vehicle within the search area.

A section of the front grill was retrieved to assist with identification of the vehicle.

Further enquiries are being conducted by Major Crime to determine whether the vehicle is connected with the murder of Rosemary Brown and suspected murder of Melissa Trussell.

Dependent on the results of those enquiries, attempts may be made to recover the vehicle for further examination.

Release earlier today:

A previously unsearched area of water and mangroves on the northern side of Garden Island will be the focus of today’s search.

This new location has been identified in a comprehensive cold case review of the original investigation that has also resulted in new leads being pursued by Major Crime Investigation Branch detectives.

The review has also led to numerous exhibits in the case being re-submitted to Forensic Science SA for fresh DNA testing using advanced techniques unavailable at the time of Rosemary’s murder and Melissa’s disappearance in May 2000.

Melissa, aged 15 years and her mother, Rosemary Brown, aged 33 years, were last seen leaving their home in Blair Athol at about 2.30am on Saturday 13 May 2000. The body of Melissa’s mother, Rosemary Brown was found in mangroves at Garden Island on 2 July 2000.

“As part of the renewed investigation, we have identified a previously unsearched area and we’re hopeful that we can find the remains of Melissa,” Detective Superintendent Darren Fielke, Officer in Charge of Major Crime Investigation Branch said.

“This search demonstrates that we will not give up looking for answers.

“We will continue to investigate this matter and will not stop until we can provide closure and hopefully justice for the loved ones of both Rosemary Brown and Melissa Trussell.”

Earlier this month, family of Melissa released a public plea for information exactly 25 years since Rosemary’s body was discovered in mangroves at Garden Island

“We would like to thank the public for new information provided to Crime Stoppers following this appeal,” Detective Superintendent Fielke added.

“We urge anyone with any information on this case, no matter how minute, to contact police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au – you can remain anonymous.”

Rewards up to $1,000,000 will be paid by the Government of South Australia, at the discretion of the Commissioner of Police, to anyone who provides information and assistance that leads to the conviction of the person or persons responsible for the suspected murder of Melissa Trussell (Brown) (and/or leading to the location and recovery of the victim’s remains).

Rewards up to $200,000 will be paid by the Government of South Australia, at the discretion of the Commissioner of Police, to anyone who provides information and assistance that leads to the conviction of the person or persons responsible for the suspected murder of Rosemary Brown.

Police are today searching for the remains of Melissa Trussell after identifying a new search area on Garden Island. Below are photos from today's search.