Farmer Found Shot Dead in Shallow Grave on Remote Victorian Property
The daughter of a farmer who was mysteriously shot dead and discovered in a shallow grave on his rural property has revealed another devastating family tragedy that compounds their grief. Richard Wills, aged 65, was located on his farm in Ouyen, approximately 101 kilometers south of Mildura in Victoria, on Tuesday, April 7. He had been reported missing two days earlier on Easter Sunday, sparking immediate concern among his loved ones.
Family's Heartbreaking Double Loss Revealed
In a poignant Facebook post after her father's body was found, Wills' daughter Kayla Phillips opened up about the family's profound suffering. She disclosed that they had already experienced the loss of her sister ten years ago, making this latest tragedy feel like an unbearable continuation of their nightmare. "It feels like yet another nightmare we don't get to wake from," Phillips expressed, capturing the depth of their despair.
She emphasized that the entire family is currently in a state of "shock and disbelief" as they grapple with the violent death of their patriarch. Phillips acknowledged the challenging journey ahead, stating, "We have a long road ahead while we wait for answers as to what has happened." The family's resilience is being tested once more as they seek closure and justice.
Final Moments and Discovery of the Crime
Richard Wills was last seen alive by his wife of 32 years, Donna, around 8 a.m. on the morning of his disappearance. He was preparing to work on his farm located off the Mallee Highway in Ouyen. Donna recalled, "He just got up and had breakfast and left the house. I was still in bed. He just kissed me goodbye, and I thought I'd see him at lunchtime." Her concern grew when he failed to return home for lunch, prompting the initial search efforts.
An autopsy conducted on Wills' body has conclusively confirmed that he died from gunshot wounds, classifying his death as a homicide. His body was found in a shallow grave on the remote farm, indicating a deliberate attempt to conceal the crime. Detective Senior Sergeant Steve Trewavas described the killing as "vicious" and confirmed that the grandfather had been "clearly met with foul play." Investigators have also uncovered evidence suggesting Wills' body was dragged behind a vehicle on the property, adding to the brutality of the incident.
Ongoing Police Investigation and Community Appeal
Victoria Police continue their intensive investigation into Richard Wills' murder, with no significant updates released to the public at this time. Authorities remain actively on the hunt for the gunman responsible for this heinous act. Detective Trewavas and his team are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward immediately. The remote nature of the Ouyen area may pose challenges, but police are determined to piece together the events leading to Wills' death.
The local community and wider public are being called upon to assist in any way possible, as the search for the perpetrator continues. The tragic loss of Richard Wills has not only devastated his family but also shaken the rural community, highlighting the urgent need for answers and justice in this disturbing case.
