Irma Palasics - $500,000 reward

Recent developments

Following an investigation open for more than 23 years, a 68-year-old Rowville (VIC) man was extradited from Victoria and appeared in the ACT Magistrates Court on 22 September 2023 - charged with one count of murder in relation to the death of Irma Palasics.

A second man, a 68-year-old from Melbourne was arrested on 6 December 2023 and after being extradited from Victoria, appeared in the ACT Magistrates Court on 8 December- charged with one count of murder.

Detective Superintendent Scott Moller from ACT Policing’s Criminal Investigations said this outcome is immensely satisfying - especially to be able to provide the Palasics’ family the answer they had sought for more than 20 years - Who killed Irma?

“As a police officer, it is a great day when officers can make the call to family members that the people responsible for the death of a loved one have been identified and are now in custody,” Detective Superintendent Moller said.

The case

About 9.30pm on Saturday 6 November 1999 two men forced their way into the McKellar home of elderly couple, Gregor and Irma Palasics.

The couple were bound and savagely beaten before the men ransacked their home and stole cash and jewellery. Irma did not survive her injuries and died at the scene.

Gregor and Irma were victims of a burglary in 1997 and an aggravated burglary in 1998 when they lived in Red Hill.

During the burglary in 1997 unknown offender(s) stole a large sum of cash and jewellery.

Police suspect that a possible link exists between the burglaries in 1997 and 1998 and the home invasion (aggravated burglary) on 6 November 1999 which resulted in the murder of Irma Palasics.

Police are urging anyone with any information, no matter how small, to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Information can be provided anonymously.

A $500 000 reward is in place for information leading to the apprehension and subsequent conviction of the person(s) responsible for Irma's murder and an appropriate indemnity from prosecution will be considered for any accomplice who first gives information.