Second Suspect Charged with Murder in North Nowra Death Probe
Police have made a second arrest in connection with the death of Matthew O'Brien in North Nowra, with a 58-year-old man now facing murder and common assault charges. This development follows the earlier arrest of a 29-year-old man earlier this week, as investigations into the December 2024 incident continue to unfold.
Details of the Latest Arrest
The 58-year-old suspect was apprehended at a residence in North Nowra at approximately 11:20 am on Friday, January 22. He was subsequently charged with murder and common assault, and was refused bail to appear in Bail Division Court Three on Saturday, January 23. This arrest comes just days after police took 29-year-old James Daniel Balfour into custody at another North Nowra home, charging him with murder as well.
Background of the Investigation
Matthew O'Brien was found unconscious on a fire trail on a rural property on McMahons Road, North Nowra, near a gas pipeline clearing, at about 8:15 pm on Monday, December 9, 2024. He had sustained serious head injuries and, despite treatment from NSW Ambulance personnel, died at the scene. Officers from the South Coast Police District established a crime scene and launched an investigation.
Strike Force Bursteed was formed to investigate the circumstances surrounding Mr O'Brien's death, and it is this taskforce that has been responsible for both arrests. In early January, police returned to the location with detectives, the crime scene unit, and the Rescue and Bomb Disposal Unit to conduct further searches, using drones to capture images as part of the ongoing probe.
Ongoing Police Efforts
At the time of the first arrest, police indicated that their investigations were continuing, with a focus on determining whether a second person was involved. The latest arrest confirms that suspicion, highlighting the persistent efforts of law enforcement to bring all parties accountable to justice. Both suspects remain before the courts as the case progresses.
The use of advanced technology, such as drones, underscores the comprehensive approach taken by authorities in gathering evidence and piecing together the events leading to Mr O'Brien's tragic death. The community awaits further updates as the legal proceedings unfold.
