UPDATE: Significant progress has been made in the investigation of the 1978 Mount Isa cold case triple murder, with a coroner announcing the gathering of extensive evidence ahead of the upcoming inquest. Hearings are scheduled to begin on October 7, 2023, marking a major step forward in the pursuit of justice for the victims.
Karen Edwards, 23, Tim Thomson, 31, and Gordon Twaddle, 21, were tragically murdered during a motorcycle trip from Alice Springs to Mount Isa. Their bodies were discovered on October 5, 1978, in remote bushland near Spear Creek, just 12 km north of Mount Isa, with gunshot wounds. This chilling case has remained unsolved for nearly half a century, captivating the attention of both the public and law enforcement.
During a pre-inquest conference, Queensland coroner David O’Connell received an update from counsel assisting, Amelia Hughes, who confirmed that the brief of evidence is extensive and ongoing investigations are still underway. She emphasized that all involved parties will receive the evidence brief and witness list by September, just ahead of the hearings.
The emotional toll of this case resonates deeply, as family members, including Edwards’ sister, listened remotely to the proceedings. The trio, known for their passion for motorcycles, had planned to travel to Cairns and then south to Melbourne to celebrate Christmas with family. They were last spotted leaving the Moondarra Caravan Park in Mount Isa in a brown and white Toyota Landcruiser on the morning of their disappearance.
In a bid to encourage new leads, Queensland police renewed a $250,000 reward in 2019 for information leading to the arrest of those responsible for the murders. However, the case took a controversial turn when former NSW prison guard Bruce John Preston was charged with the murders in April 2019 but had all charges dropped by July 2023.
The upcoming inquest will be a pivotal moment, with hearings scheduled to last for nine days in the Brisbane Coroners Court, concluding just days before the 47th anniversary of the victims’ tragic deaths. This renewed focus on the case highlights the relentless pursuit of justice and closure for the families affected.
As this story develops, it remains crucial for anyone with information to come forward and assist authorities in finally solving this enduring mystery. Stay tuned for further updates as the inquest approaches, and share this story to keep awareness alive.
