South Australia Police can confirm the human remains located on a vacant block on Cheviot Road, Salisbury South on Monday are those of 55 year old missing person Geoffrey McLean.
Major Crime Detective Inspector Brett Featherby said the identification was confirmed through DNA testing. The victim's family has been notified and are being assisted by SAPOL's Victim Contact Officer.
Geoff was a father of a 10 year old child, an Essendon Football Club supporter, played senior football for South Whyalla and enjoyed playing golf.
"Police can confirm Geoff's body had been dismembered and only his torso was recovered within a wheelie bin," said Detective Inspector Featherby.
"All of our efforts are firmly focused on recovering Geoff's remains and identifying those responsible for his death.
"Evidence at the scene suggests those responsible were intending to bury his body. Police are reviewing CCTV footage in the surrounding area to identify those responsible for his murder and the dumping of his body.
"Police believe more than one person was involved in Geoff's murder, and may have been disturbed when dumping his body."
In the lead up to his death Geoff was victim of four violent attacks at his home address. A number of these matters are before the court. They are being reviewed and SAPOL is consulting with the DPP.
"Police believe his murder is a culmination of this series of targeted brutal attacks, which have ultimately led to his death."
Police know Geoff returned to his home address at Leicester Grove in Andrews Farm on the afternoon of 18 August 2022. There have been no independent sightings of Geoff since this time. He was reported missing on 29 August 2022.
"Anybody who has knowledge of events leading up to Geoff's disappearance or as to his whereabouts should contact police."
People should contact police if they were in the vicinity of Cheviot Road at Salisbury South on the following dates:
- early hours of Friday 19 August 2022
- acting suspiciously near the vacant block
- any vehicles or persons in the area of the vacant block
- between 19 August and 24 October 2022
Security patrols, shift workers, and delivery drivers working and travelling in the area should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 where they can to talk to detectives tonight between 5 pm and 9 pm. You can also make an online report at crimestopperssa.com.au – you can remain anonymous.
