UPDATE: An urgent inquest has just commenced in Brisbane to investigate the mysterious deaths of three friends—Timothy Thomson, Karen Edwards, and Gordon Twaddle—who were tragically found shot in October 1978. This marks a pivotal moment for the families seeking answers after nearly 50 years of unanswered questions surrounding the trio’s untimely demise.
The trio was last seen traveling together on a motorcycle trip from Alice Springs to Cairns, with plans to reach Melbourne for Christmas. Their bodies were discovered near Mt Isa, and authorities confirmed they all died from gunshot wounds to the head. The inquest is packed with family members, all desperate for clarity on the events leading to that fateful journey.
Witnesses at the inquest revealed that prior to their deaths, Thomson, who was working at a Lutheran mission, had expressed discontent with his job. He had previously reported that his dog, Tristie, was shot while he was residing at the mission, raising serious concerns about his safety.
In a shocking turn of events, multiple witnesses reported seeing a Toyota Landcruiser near Thomson’s residence shortly before he left the mission. This vehicle is now a focal point in the investigation. Witnesses also noted that around the time of their disappearance, Thomson was spotted in the Landcruiser with an unknown man.
As the inquest progresses, significant evidence has emerged, including sightings of the group and reports of a dog found at the Mt Isa dump just days after the trio went missing. Following these revelations, a receipt from Moondarra Caravan Park indicates that they had checked in shortly before their deaths, but the circumstances surrounding their departure remain murky.
The inquest, led by Coroner David O’Connell, is expected to delve into the details of their travel movements and interactions with a fourth motorbike rider seen with them. Authorities are looking closely at the connection to the Toyota Landcruiser that may hold the key to solving this cold case.
The families of the victims are holding onto hope that this inquest will finally bring them the answers they have sought for decades. The emotional weight of their wait for justice is palpable in the courtroom as they reflect on the lives lost and the memories still cherished.
Witnesses have also described the troubling environment surrounding the trio’s last days, including reports of drug use and potential conflicts with local Indigenous people. These details add layers of complexity to the investigation, which spans nearly five decades.
As the inquest continues, the community watches closely, hoping for breakthroughs that could finally provide closure to the families of Thomson, Edwards, and Twaddle. The investigation into their deaths remains a poignant reminder of unresolved tragedies that still haunt many families across Australia.
Stay tuned for ongoing updates as this urgent inquest unfolds.
