The search for missing mum Samantha Murphy took a significant turn this week as a mobile phone believed to belong to her was discovered during a targeted search of a property in Buninyong.
Ms Murphy went missing on February 4 while out for a run in Ballarat East, and her body has yet to be located. The discovery of the iPhone, encased in a teal phone case, has provided investigators with a potential breakthrough in the case.
Victoria Police confirmed that detectives from the Missing Persons Squad found “some items of interest” during the search in Buninyong, and the area has been cordoned off for forensic testing. While police have not officially confirmed that the phone belonged to Ms Murphy, the link between her and the discovery has been reported by 7News.
The search in Buninyong concluded on Wednesday, with police stating that it would not continue on Thursday. Patrick Orren Stephenson has been charged with Ms Murphy’s murder, with police alleging that he acted alone. He is yet to enter a plea in the case.
Criminologist Xanthé Mallett, speaking on Sunrise, noted the significance of the phone discovery after 116 days since Ms Murphy’s disappearance. She highlighted that the condition of the phone, if undamaged and confirmed to be hers, could provide valuable information to investigators.
However, Dr. Mallett cautioned that assessing the phone could take weeks due to potential damage from being exposed to the elements for an extended period. The forensic analysis of the device will be crucial in determining any new leads or evidence in the case.
As the investigation continues, the discovery of the phone has renewed hope for answers in the search for Samantha Murphy. The community remains hopeful that this development will bring closure to her loved ones and justice for the missing mother.