BY IAN CROUCH
Police Minister David Elliott will today announce a $1 million reward for information into an unsolved murder in the Hunter more than 26 years ago.
The body of 22-year-old Melissa Hunt was found floating in a dam at Bluegum Creek near Stockrington on Anzac Day 1994.
A post mortem found she died from massive head injuries before being thrown into the water, with her body weighed down by sandstone rocks placed inside her clothes.
Melissa's family has been calling for an inquest into her death to be reopened after it was suspended in the late 90's because the Coroner believed there was sufficient evidence for charges to be laid against a person of interest, who's never been publicly identified.
But nothing eventuated.
Melissa’s brother, Mr Peter Hallett, said he hoped the reward may help
detectives uncover new leads to finally provide justice for his sister and
family.
“Melissa was deeply loved by our family and we have never stopped missing
her and desperately wishing that her life had not been cut short,” Mr Hallett
said.
“We should not just have memories of Melissa’s beautiful dark eyes, her
mischievous laugh, musical talent, eye for detail, passion for writing and
fierce love for her family and two children – we should all be able to hold her
now.
“After 26 years of despairing grief, we are hoping that someone will come
forward and help police identify those responsible for her death.
“Melissa was robbed of her life and of her right to know and love her
children, and as a family we cannot rest until justice is served,” Mr Hallett
said.
It's hoped the reward will encourage the community to come forward with information to assist detectives with their investigation.
Melissa Hunt died from massive head injuries
