Meaghan Louise Rose: Arrest warrant issued for ex-boyfriend Keith Lees after body found in Mooloolaba 25 years ago
- Police issue arrest warrant for Keith Lees
- Body of Meaghan Louise Rose found in 1997
Police have issued an arrest warrant for the ex-boyfriend of a young woman in connection with his alleged murder 25 years ago.
The body of 25-year-old Meaghan Louise Rose was found at the bottom of a cliff at Point Cartwright in Mooloolaba, south Queensland, in July 1997.
Initially, her death was not considered suspicious, but the case was reopened after new information came to light, such as a life insurance policy taken out before Rose died.
Police revealed Friday that an arrest warrant has been issued for Rose’s former partner, Keith Lees.
Keith Lees (pictured) is being wanted by police in connection with the 1997 death of Meaghan Louise Rose
Homicide detectives visited a home in Victoria on June 25 to speak with Lees, 70, in connection with the investigation.
A day later, his car was found abandoned in Portland, and Victoria Police launched a search and rescue operation.
Mr. Lees allegedly gave a false name when officers spoke to him later that day.
The 70-year-old man was seen shopping for new clothes at the Waurn Ponds shopping center on June 27.
The body of 25-year-old Meaghan Louise Rose was found at the bottom of a cliff at Point Cartwright in Mooloolaba, south Queensland, in July 1997.
Mr Lees was seen at Shepparton railway station (pictured) on June 27.
He was seen again on CCTV over 250km away leaving Shepparton railway station the same day wearing a distinctive black and white jacket.
Authorities believe he may be looking for casual work in the fruit-picking and agricultural industries.
Lees could still be in Victoria or have traveled between states, police added.
At the time of his death, Mr. Rose’s vehicle, which contained a number of personal items, was located on top of the cliffs.
Police announced a $500,000 reward in June for information leading to an arrest in Rose’s death.
Authorities believe Mr. Lees may be seeking casual work in the fruit picking and agricultural industries.
Ms Rose’s sister, Fiona Ratcliffe, issued a heartfelt plea at the time.
‘Meaghan was a dear friend to everyone she knew. Meaghan was my best friend,” Ratcliffe said.
“I would like to ask the community at large for any information regarding Meaghan’s death to come forward and help close the relationship with her family.”
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Mr. Lees is asked to come forward.
The public has been told to stay away from him and call the police immediately.
Ms Rose’s body was found at the bottom of a cliff at Point Cartwright in Mooloolaba
