Investigation Launched into Suspicious Death in Melonba, NSW
Australian police have launched a homicide investigation into the death of an 84-year-old woman found dead at a Melonba home on a Saturday afternoon. The incident, which has prompted the formation of a specialized Strike Force, marks a shift from routine welfare concerns to a full criminal inquiry.
What Happened
Police were alerted after the family found Irene Selmes, 84, deceased inside her Melonba residence on Comet Street. The discovery was made around midday on a Saturday, following a call to emergency services from relatives who had last seen her the previous evening. Authorities say the injuries were localized to the upper body, and the circumstances surrounding the death prompted detectives to treat it as suspicious.
Strike Force Vado and the Homicide Squad
NSW Police have established Strike Force Vado to coordinate the homicide investigation. Acting Superintendent Gretchen Grove-Jones confirmed the formation of the strike force and said officers are ensuring a thorough examination of every angle surrounding the death. The Homicide Squad is overseeing the inquiry to determine whether foul play was involved and to piece together the events leading up to and following the last sighting of Ms. Selmes.
Family and Community
Ms. Selmes lived with family members at the property, and relatives have been assisting investigators. The family is receiving support as they cope with the distressing circumstances. Police have emphasized that no weapons or items of interest were located at the scene at this stage, but investigators will continue a meticulous search for clues that could explain the injuries observed on the elderly woman.
What Comes Next
A post-mortem examination is planned to determine the cause of death. Police said results are expected in the coming days, which will help determine whether this case comprises a homicide or another type of fatality. In the interim, detectives are appealing for public information to fill any gaps in the timeline and to verify the movements of the family on the night prior to the discovery.
Questions for the Public
Detectives are asking residents of Melonba and nearby suburbs to report anything unusual observed in Comet Street or around the household in the 24 hours before the discovery. Whether it was a suspicious person, unusual vehicles, or unfamiliar noises, any information could prove crucial to the investigation. Tips can be provided to local police contact points or Crime Stoppers, with assurances of confidentiality.
Context and Local Impact
The case highlights the role of specialised homicide teams in investigating elderly deaths that appear out of the ordinary. While most welfare concerns do not escalate to crime scenes, authorities stress the importance of prompt reporting when a vulnerable resident is missing or unaccounted for. The Melonba community, like many Western Sydney neighborhoods, is watching closely as investigators pursue every lead.
Conclusion
As the inquiry continues, investigators will assess whether there is evidence of criminal involvement surrounding Irene Selmes’s death. The public is urged to remain vigilant and share information that could assist Strike Force Vado in their work. An official update is expected as the post-mortem results are concluded and further forensic examinations are completed.
