Police have discovered possible human remains during an extensive search of a rural property in Queensland’s Darling Downs region. This search is linked to the suspicious disappearance of local man Paul Woods, who was reported missing on October 14, 2025. Authorities believe he was last seen around October 5, traveling between Hampton and the Crows Nest area, located north of Toowoomba.
The investigation took a significant turn when police charged Shaun James Smoothy, a 45-year-old house re-stumper, with the murder of Woods on the Gold Coast on October 20. Police allege that Woods was murdered in early October. In addition to the murder charge, Smoothy faces one count of improperly interfering with a corpse, specifically relating to the dismemberment of a body, as outlined in court documents.
Search Efforts and Investigation Developments
The possible remains were located during a thorough search of a property near Cressbrook Creek, approximately 140 kilometers west of Brisbane. This area has been the focus of the investigation since two crime scenes were established earlier in the month. The first site is believed to be the residence of Woods in Hampton, while the second is the Cressbrook Creek property.
Authorities deployed cadaver dogs, the State Emergency Service (SES), and a police dive squad as part of this multi-day search operation. Acting Detective Inspector Ryan Harmer of the Darling Downs Crime Group stated that the two men were acquainted, but the nature of their relationship is still under investigation. He indicated that Woods may have been riding an unregistered blue and white Yamaha 450 dirt bike on the day he went missing.
As of Wednesday, police confirmed the discovery of the remains and indicated that officers, including divers, remain on-site to further the investigation. Forensic examinations are ongoing to formally identify the remains.
Next Steps and Public Appeal
Smoothy has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear in the Toowoomba Magistrates Court on November 18, 2025. In light of the ongoing investigation, police are urging the public for any information regarding Woods’s whereabouts and his use of the unregistered motorbike between October 5 and October 6 in the areas of Hampton, Crows Nest, and Cressbrook Creek.
This case underscores the serious nature of the investigation into Woods’s disappearance, as authorities work diligently to uncover the circumstances surrounding his last known movements.
