Monster jailed for 1983 rape and murder of Gold Coast newlywed

Convicted rapist and killer, Troy James O’Meara (photo: 9News).

The man who raped and murdered a 21-year-old newlywed woman on the Gold Coast in 1983 has today been jailed for two decades.

Troy James O’Meara was just 17 when he abducted Linda Reed while on her lunch break at the Pacific Fair Shopping Centre in Broadbeach, forcing her to drive to a remote location where he tied her up and sexually assaulted her before drowning her in a creek.

O’Meara pleaded guilty to her rape and murder in March and was today sentenced in court.

Detective Senior Sergeant Tara Kentwell of the Queensland Police Homicide Cold Case Investigation Team said the determination and commitment of investigators past and present had led to today’s result.

“Over a 35-year period, Queensland Police have continued to progress investigations into the rape and murder of Linda Doris Reed,” said Det Snr Sgt Kentwell.

“This investigation changed focus in 2014 when fingerprint evidence first identified Troy James O’Meara as a suspect. 

“Over the next four years the Homicide Cold Case Investigation Team meticulously reviewed this investigation overcoming challenges imposed by the passage of time.”

She said that during the renewed investigation, more than 150 exhibits were re-examined with contemporary forensic techniques, over 690 evidential documents were digitised and more than 100 witnesses were reinterviewed. 

“The success of this investigation is due to the perseverance of investigative, intelligence, forensic and administrative staff supported by Queensland Health Forensic and Scientific Services, the Institute of Environmental Research and Science in New Zealand and the Office of the Department of Public Prosecutions,” said Det Snr Sgt Kentwell.

“The cooperation and patience of witnesses as well as the family and friends of Linda Reed with Queensland Police has been integral to providing justice for Linda,” she said.

“The sentence delivered today by Justice Martin will hopefully bring some answers and closure to those affected by the tragic murder of Linda Reed who was only 21 years of age when her life was abruptly taken at random by Troy James O’Meara. 

“I thank all members of the Queensland Police Service (QPS) who have contributed to this intensive and lengthy investigation.”