Police have discovered human remains in a tip in Melbourne’s east, believed to belong to missing teenager Isla Bell.
A 53-year-old man from St Kilda faced court this morning charged with murder, while a 57-year-old Hampton man believed to be his accomplice, was charged with assisting an offender with murder. A third man, a 63-year-old from Mulgrave, was arrested, but released pending further inquiries.
Isla Bell, who would have turned 20 last month, has been missing for 44 days, since she was last seen on October 4. The Victorian Police’s Missing Persons Squad took over the investigation in late October.
In a press conference on October 22, police said there was “no evidence to suggest any foul play”.
On Tuesday evening, according to reports, authorities discovered a body in a tip in Dandenong, Melbourne’s outer east. While the body has not yet been formally identified, it is believed to be the body of Isla Bell.
Police say Isla’s family have been notified and will provide appropriate support services.
Justine Spokes, Isla’s mother, described her daughter as a “fighting spirit” in a Facebook post on October 22 – Isla’s 20th birthday.
“My girl is missing and dearly missed,” Spokes wrote.
“She leaves an impression, she’s hard to forget. She has a fighting spirit, sometimes it’s loud and sometimes it’s soft, always enduring.
“We’re here for you bub. I love you my care bear.”
According to Destroy the Joint’s Counting Dead Women, 65 women have been killed by violence. With six weeks remaining in 2024, the register of women killed has already surpassed last year’s total – 64.
Sherele Moody’s Australia Femicide Watch, which takes a different approach to updating its toll and includes Australian women killed overseas, reports 85 women killed by violence this year.
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services.
If you are concerned about your behaviour or use of violence, you can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or visit http://www.ntv.org.au.
Feeling worried or no good? No shame, no judgement, safe place to yarn. Speak to a 13YARN Crisis Supporter, call 13 92 76. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.