Three charged in tragic Brisbane murder and torture case
Australian police have charged three men over the torture and murder of Brisbane father Andrew Burow. The charges, which include kidnapping, extortion and misconduct with a corpse, stem from a complex investigation spanning eight crime scenes across south-east Queensland. The trio – a 38-year-old man from Sippy Downs, a 26-year-old man from North Lakes, and a 57-year-old man from Buderim – are due to appear in the Brisbane Magistrates Court today.
What authorities allege happened
Detectives allege that the incident was a targeted attack. They say Mr. Burow and the North Lakes man knew each other. The investigation suggests that the IT and cybersecurity professional from Kelvin Grove endured a brutal three to four-day ordeal after meeting with the accused on August 21. “It’ll be alleged the men tortured Andrew at various locations, and on or around the 25th of August, they murdered Andrew and left his remains beside Brooklands-Pimpimbudgee Road at Maidenwell around the 26th of August,” said Detective Acting Inspector Murray O’Connell.
Photographic evidence of torture has been disclosed in connection with the case. Police say Mr. Burow was reported missing four days after last being seen at his Brisbane unit on August 20. Family communications, including missed celebrations and a string of unanswered texts, prompted concern and ultimately led to authorities being notified.
Key discovery and the investigation timeline
Shortly after the missing person report, officers found a phone, zip ties, alcohol wipes and information about Mr. Burow’s parents at a property in Bli Bli on the Sunshine Coast. These items intensified investigators’ concerns for his safety. Following this discovery, officers charged the 38-year-old and the 26-year-old with torture after police allegedly uncovered photographic evidence showing Mr. Burow severely beaten.
Detective O’Connell noted that despite grave safety concerns, investigators remained hopeful of locating Mr. Burow alive. The case broadened with additional crime scenes identified and more vehicles seized in the early stages of the inquiry. In September, police appealed to the public for help tracking the movements of those vehicles, which proved instrumental in advancing the case.
Remains located and motive
Police later located Mr. Burow’s remains by the side of a road near Maidenwell, an outcome that escalated the case from a missing-person inquiry to a murder investigation. While investigators say they have an alleged motive, they have not publicly elaborated on it, citing the case’s ongoing court process. Detective O’Connell invited continued public assistance, stressing that any new information could be crucial to the case.
Reactions from family and community
The Burow family issued a statement acknowledging the hard work of law enforcement and expressing grief for their loved one. They described Andrew as a loving father, a loyal son and brother, and someone who offered second chances. Police and the family both thanked the public for its involvement in the investigation and for providing information that aided in bringing the case to this point.
What happens next
The three men are expected to appear before the Brisbane Magistrates Court. The legal proceedings will determine the next steps, including potential extradition, bail considerations, and the timelines for trial. Police have indicated they will welcome any additional information from the public that could help illuminate the events of August 2023 and the sequence leading to Mr. Burow’s death.
Public safety and the ongoing case
This case underscores the importance of community cooperation with law enforcement during complex, multi-site investigations. Officials have reiterated that the case remains before the court, and further details may be released as legal proceedings advance. Authorities stressed that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
