Aaron Bunch Journalist with Australian Associated Press | Collection of published work | + 61 484 008 119 | abunch@aap.com.au
North Qld body identified as missing mum
Skeletal remains found in bushland near Townsville have been identified as those of missing mother-of-two Julie Hutchinson.
September 6, 2018
Human remains located in north Queensland bushland have been identified as belonging to a mother of two who was killed by her husband in 2015.
Police confirmed on Wednesday the body discovered beside Hervey Range Road, west of Townsville, is that of Julie Hutchinson.
Ms Hutchinson went missing in March 2015, and her husband Michael was last year convicted of her manslaughter.
He is currently serving 15-and-a-half years behind bars.
Julie’s sister Christine Teitzel said last month’s discovery had reignited tragic memories for the family.
“This past week has been harrowing and our lives have been tipped upside down once again,” Ms Teitzel told reporters.
“We were confronted with the reality of what took place during that terrible time, realising her body was dumped without a grain of humanity.”
Ms Teitzel said it was the fulfilment of the “worst possible wish” to have her sister’s remains returned to the family and thanked all those involved in the location and identification.
“We are now able to lay her to rest with the respect and dignity she deserves,” she said.
Ms Hutchinson’s remains were identified through dental records.
Police said a recent grassfire had exposed her body, however, the level of decomposition meant her cause of death remains unknown.