Second murder charge in Irma Palasics case

A 68-year-old Melbourne man has been arrested following the death of Irma Palasics in 1999, the second arrest to take place in an investigation that has spanned more than 24 years.

About 9.30pm on 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.

What followed was a significant investigation, with multiple avenues of inquiry considered.

Following a review of the investigation and other outstanding cases in 2021 a new investigative strategy was commenced. This ultimately led to the arrest of a 68-year-old man in Melbourne on 20 September 2023, who was charged with one count of murder.

On Wednesday (6 December 2023) ACT Policing investigators, with the assistance of Victoria Police, attended a residence in the Melbourne suburb of Endeavour Hills and arrested the 68-year-old man. He faced the Dandenong Magistrates Court yesterday (Thursday 7 December 2023) where his extradition to the ACT was granted. He is scheduled to face the ACT Magistrates Court today (Friday 8 December 2023) charged with one count of murder.

The second arrest for this matter comes after continued investigations following the first arrest in September.

Detective Superintendent Scott Moller from ACT Policing’s Unsolved Homicide and Long Term Missing Persons team said the second arrest was the culmination of a significantly complex investigation and was deeply gratifying for all involved.

“This investigation has spanned across several years, with our team of investigators having worked tirelessly to ensure the Palasics family were provided with answers,” Detective Superintendent Moller said.

“While the first arrest in September was tremendously satisfying, being able to provide comfort for Irma’s family and the Canberra community with the second and final arrest this week is what all of the investigators worked towards.

“I would like to thank all the officers and support staff who worked on this case over the past 24 years for their commitment to bringing those allegedly responsible for Irma’s death before the court.

“There is no more traumatic experience than having to deal with the senseless murder of a loved one, so to the family of Irma Palasics,  we are pleased to provide this outcome.”

ACT Policing’s Unsolved Homicide team continue to investigate other long term unsolved matters. Anyone with information in relation to any of these matters should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppers.com.au.