In a renewed effort to solve a decades-old cold case, police are offering a $500,000 reward for information related to a fatal fire in Ipswich that occurred 34 years ago. The fire took place on December 29, 1990, at the Oakdale Guest House on Milford Street, resulting in the deaths of five men.
The victims, identified as Desmond Bemi (59), Trevor Ganter (64), Salvatore Tusa (41), Edward Boyne (80), and Eldred Glode (68), tragically lost their lives in the tragic blaze that engulfed the boarding house in the early morning hours.
Detectives from the Ipswich Criminal Investigation Branch have reopened the case, focusing on reviewing forensic evidence and conducting fresh interviews with up to 70 witnesses who provided accounts of the fire at the time. Detective Senior Sergeant Tara Kentwell is urging any additional witnesses to come forward and assist with the investigation, emphasizing the importance of public assistance in solving the crime.
Authorities believe that two key events occurred on the evening prior to the fire that could trigger memories and potentially provide crucial information to the investigation. Altercations involving non-residents and residents of the Oakdale Guest House were reported, one of which allegedly stemmed from the theft of a packet of cigarettes from a resident’s room. Police are appealing to anyone who was directly involved in or has knowledge of these altercations to contact them.
Furthermore, witnesses from the time reported seeing a white Holden HQ sedan with a gold roof parked at the rear of the guest house before the fire. The vehicle was allegedly involved in one of the altercations, and two men were seen running toward it from the direction of the fire. Investigators are particularly interested in speaking to individuals who have knowledge of the vehicle’s presence at the crime scene.
Despite the passage of 34 years, law enforcement believes that there are still individuals who may hold crucial information related to the ongoing criminal investigation. The 27-bedroom Oakdale Guest House housed a total of 28 residents on the night of the fire, with the flames spreading rapidly throughout the structure, leading residents to escape by jumping from windows.
If you possess any information, regardless of how small or seemingly insignificant, you are urged to contact Crime Stoppers nationally at 1800 333 000 or submit a tip via the Crime Stoppers website. With the community’s help, justice can be served, and closure can be provided to the families and friends of the victims and the Ipswich community as a whole.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Fatal Fire in Ipswich:
1. What happened in the fatal fire in Ipswich?
On December 29, 1990, a fatal fire broke out at the Oakdale Guest House in Ipswich, resulting in the deaths of five men. The victims were Desmond Bemi, Trevor Ganter, Salvatore Tusa, Edward Boyne, and Eldred Glode.
2. Is the case still open?
Yes, the Ipswich Criminal Investigation Branch has reopened the case and is actively investigating. They are reviewing forensic evidence and conducting fresh interviews with witnesses who provided accounts of the fire at the time.
3. How can the public assist with the investigation?
Detective Senior Sergeant Tara Kentwell is urging additional witnesses to come forward and provide any relevant information. The police believe there may be individuals who have crucial information related to the ongoing investigation.
4. What are the key events that could provide important information?
Two altercations were reported on the evening prior to the fire at the Oakdale Guest House. One of the altercations stemmed from the alleged theft of a packet of cigarettes. Police are appealing to anyone directly involved or with knowledge of these altercations to contact them.
5. Was there any vehicle involved in the incident?
Witnesses reported seeing a white Holden HQ sedan with a gold roof parked at the rear of the guest house before the fire. Two men were seen running towards the vehicle from the direction of the fire. Investigators are interested in speaking to individuals who have knowledge of the vehicle’s presence at the crime scene.
6. How can someone provide information?
If you have any information, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, you are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers nationally at 1800 333 000. You can also submit a tip via the Crime Stoppers website.
7. Is there a reward for providing information?
Yes, a $500,000 reward is being offered for any information related to the fatal fire in Ipswich. This reward aims to encourage individuals with knowledge of the case to come forward and assist with the investigation.
Key Terms and Jargon:
– Cold case: An unsolved criminal investigation, often referring to cases that have been inactive for an extended period.
– Forensic evidence: Scientific analysis of physical evidence that can be used to support or refute a claim or hypothesis in a criminal investigation.
– Altercations: Arguments or physical fights between individuals.
– Crime Stoppers: An organization that allows individuals to provide anonymous information about criminal activities to assist law enforcement agencies.
Suggested Related Links:
– Crime Stoppers website