February 7, 2019
NSW detectives investigating a 2010 murder are trying to track down an old Ford Falcon ute which they believe may have ended up in Queensland.
Strike Force Barca was formed by officers from New England Police District to investigate the disappearance and suspected murder of Darren Royce Willis.
Mr Willis was last seen leaving a hotel on Maitland Street, Bingara, on December 10, 2010.
In June last year a reward of up to $350,000 was announced for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for Mr Willis’ death or disappearance.
As a result of the media appeal, investigators identified a 1980 model XD Ford Falcon ute which was bought by two men in Bingara in 2011.
Police have now released an image of the ute and would like to speak to the men who purchased the vehicle.
Investigators have established the ute is not currently registered, but believe the vehicle may be located interstate, possibly in Queensland.
Regardless of the current condition of the vehicle, Strike Force Barca investigators believe it could still contain significant forensic evidence, due to recent advances in DNA testing.
New England Police District Crime Manager, Detective Chief Inspector Ann Joy, is urging any person with information about the vehicle to come forward.
“Detectives and members of the Bingara community are heavily invested in resolving the circumstances surrounding (Mr Willis) disappearance,” Det Insp Joy said.
“We are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who has information about this yellow utility in Bingara between 2010 and 2011 and its connection to Mr Willis’s disappearance.
“The vehicle had a V8 Chevrolet motor and is the type of vehicle that would undoubtedly spark the interest of a car enthusiast.
“I’m asking anyone with knowledge of the vehicle’s current whereabouts, or its movements since the disappearance of Darren Willis, to speak with Strike Force detectives.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact Strike Force Detectives at Moree Police Station on (02) 6757-0799.
