Tasmania Police detectives scoured land in Launceston and the North-East after the discovery of a body likely to be missing man Jake Daniel Anderson-Brettner.
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Northern District Commander Brett Smith said the body had been found on the Sideling near Myrtle Park on Monday.
He described the body as “not intact” and confirmed later on Monday only a torso had been found.
Commander Smith said the investigation, which began last Thursday as a missing person case, had been upgraded to a murder investigation with the location of the body.
“The circumstances of this case are unpleasant and upsetting,” Commander Smith said.
“It is not a reflection on the usual activity that happens in Launceston.”
No charges have been laid as a result of the investigation, but a Riverside couple remain in police custody.
The 26-year-old man and 25-year-old woman were taken into custody on Saturday in relation to the incident.
Investigations into Mr Anderson-Brettner’s movements since Wednesday are still being conducted by police, with detectives searching a number of properties on Monday.
Forensic officers and detectives searched the Launceston Waste Transfer Centre at Mowbray, along with the Myrtle Park location and other areas at Riverside.
“The ongoing police investigation into the disappearance and death of Jake Anderson-Brettner is dynamic and evolving,” Detective acting Inspector Craig Fox said.
The Riverside couple were taken into police custody on Saturday morning, as a result of the investigation.
“The circumstances of Jake’s death are traumatic and significant police resources are involved in the investigation to bring his killer to justice,” Detective acting Inspector Fox said.
Both Detective acting Inspector Fox and Commander Smith said they hoped the investigation would bring the family closure.
“Our condolences are with Jake’s family and loved ones at this difficult time.”
Public information has been key to the case, with police releasing appeals in relation to sightings of three black cars and a white one.
Detective acting Inspector Fox said Tasmania Police was still seeking information in relation to two of the cars.
Three of the cars are in police possession, however public information could help place them in locations.
“Following several public appeals for information, I thank those people who have provided information, and urge anyone who saw a black 2015 Range Rover Evoque or black 2016 Jeep Cherokee in the Riverside, West Tamar or Prospect areas between 6pm Wednesday and 4.30pm Thursday to come forward if they haven’t already,” Detective acting Inspector Fox said.
“Sightings of these vehicles may provide valuable information to police to determine Jake’s movements since he was last seen around 6pm on Wednesday 15 August. Police are also seeking dash cam and CCTV footage from vehicles or properties in the area around the time.”
- Anyone with information are urged to contact police on 131 444, or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000.
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Caitlin Jarvis
I have worked in the Tasmanian digital/print media for 11 years, spanning two newsrooms. I have developed a keen interest in agricultural, development and education news, as well as issues-based long-form journalism. Contact me at caitlin.jarvis@examiner.com.au
I have worked in the Tasmanian digital/print media for 11 years, spanning two newsrooms. I have developed a keen interest in agricultural, development and education news, as well as issues-based long-form journalism. Contact me at caitlin.jarvis@examiner.com.au
