A homicide investigation is underway after a body located near Terragon last week was identified as missing Northern Rivers woman Yvonne Whear.
Yvonne Whear, aged 73, was last seen driving along Queensland Road, Murwillumbah, on Thursday 19 February 2026 and had not been seen or heard from since.
On Saturday 12 September 2026, officers attached to Tweed/Byron Police District requested the assistance of Marine Area Command’s Diving Unit to search the Rous River following information received about a vehicle potentially detected on the riverbed at Dulguigan.
Yvonne’s vehicle was recovered from the river during the search; however, she was not located inside the vehicle.
About 11.20am on Monday 5 October 2026, police were called to bushland on Kyogle Road at Terragon after a body was located in a stock dip.
The body was recovered and detectives commenced inquiries to establish the person’s identity and investigate the circumstances surrounding their death.
Police can now confirm the remains have been formally identified as those of Yvonne Whear, with detectives treating her death as a homicide.
Determined to find answers
Tweed/Byron Police District Commander, Acting Superintendent Matt Zimmer, said investigators remained determined to find those responsible and provide answers for Yvonne’s family.
‘Yvonne was a mother, grandmother, a great grandmother and a person who was clearly loved by those around her. While we can now provide some answers to her family, there are still significant questions about what happened to her and how she came to be where she was found,’ A/Supt Zimmer said.
‘Someone knows what happened to Yvonne. Whether you have previously spoken to police or have information you have not yet shared, we need you to come forward. Even the smallest piece of information could prove crucial as we work to establish the circumstances surrounding her death and hold those responsible to account.
‘Yvonne’s family has endured many months of uncertainty, and they deserve answers. We are committed to pursuing every line of inquiry and urge anyone who can assist to contact police.’
As inquiries continue under Strike Force Milera, anyone with information is urged to contact Tweed Heads Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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