Victoria Police Homicide Squad detectives have today charged a 62-year-old man with the 1984 murder of Bernard ‘Bernie’ Williams (pictured) in Bullengarook.
The man will face Melbourne Magistrates’ Court via video link later today.
The charges relate to the death of 25-year-old Melton man Bernie Williams over 40 years ago.
Mr Williams was located deceased on a bush track near Hobbs Road, Bullengarook about 3pm on 3 March, 1984.
He was found tied up and had been shot a number of times.
Detectives believe that it is highly likely several people were involved in Bernie’s death, given the Melton Football Club player was known for his physical capabilities as well as the manner in which he had been restrained.
“At the time of his death, Bernie was a 25-years-old with a young daughter and in the prime of his life,” said Homicide Squad Detective Senior Sergeant Paul Scarlett.
“He was a passionate member of the Melton Football Club and was well known within the Melton community for his skills on the football field.
“Almost four decades on, his family are still searching for answers as to why their much loved son and brother were killed.
In 2017, police announced a $1million reward for information leading to the apprehension and subsequent conviction of the person or persons responsible for the death of Bernard Williams.
“Since that time detectives have been actively working on the case and today we are in a position to charge someone in relation to the matter.
“However, we believe the person who has been charged did not act alone and that it’s likely more than one person was involved, or at least present, when Bernie was killed,” said Det Snr Sgt Scarlett.
“There may be people in the Melton area who were living there in 1984 who have further knowledge about Bernie’s death, or they may now be living elsewhere in Victoria or interstate given the length of time that has passed.
“We are also very keen to speak to anyone who has any information about the motive for Bernie’s death.
“He was not known to police for any criminal matters, however we’re aware he had a number of personal relationship disputes and that remains an active avenue of enquiry for us.”
The investigation remains ongoing.
Police are particularly keen to speak to anyone who was living in the Melton area around 1984 who may have information about Bernie’s death and those responsible.
“The $1 million reward remains on offer and we are hopeful that today’s update leads to further breakthroughs in this case.”
“If you have any piece of information, no matter how inconsequential you may think it is, then I encourage you to come forward and speak to police or Crime Stoppers,” Det Snr Sgt Scarlett said.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
