POLICE have announced a $500,000 reward for any information that helps investigators piece together what happened to Newcastle woman Cecilia Devine before her body was discovered in a dam in the Blue Mountains months after her disappearance.
Ms Devine, 42, who was also known as Kristen Pearson, was found dead on March 18, 2019, in the remote Upper Cascade Creek dam catchment at North Katoomba. She was listed as a missing person and had last been seen in the nearby NSW village of Katoomba more than six months earlier, on September 6, 2018.
An inquest into her death was held in Sydney this year and examined the manner and cause of the musician's death, which remains a mystery. The findings of the inquest were handed down on Tuesday, October 22, with police announcing the reward and relaunching their appeal for information.
Commander of Blue Mountains police area command, Superintendent John Nelson, said he hoped this reward announcement would encourage anyone to come forward who may have seen Ms Devine.
"Prior to her disappearance, Cecilia travelled from Newcastle to Katoomba yet we still don't have firm evidence of how she got here, why she made the journey, or how she died," he said.
"We are urging anyone who saw Cecilia at the time she was reported missing, or who has any information about her whereabouts at the time, to contact police. This information could very well be the missing puzzle piece for this investigation.
"Today's coronial findings have handed the investigation back to police and we are committed to find the answers the NSW community and Cecilia's family deserve."
Ms Devine was reported missing on September 5, 2018, from Waratah, after family and friends were unable to find or contact her, investigators have previously said. Officers attached to Newcastle City police district immediately commenced inquiries however, their searches were unsuccessful.
Cecilia's mother, Kathy Pearson, fronted the media on Tuesday to support the announcement of the $500,000 reward.
"Cecilia - who was also known as Kristen - was a much-loved daughter, sister, and friend who was taken from us too soon in terrible circumstances," Ms Pearson said.
"She was a talented singer and songwriter, with a sparkling smile, infectious laugh, and a big heart.
"We hope that this reward encourages anyone with information to come forward and help the police to provide answers and peace of mind to our family."
Police launched a murder investigation into her death in May 2019 and have said they are confident that there are people in the community who have information about the case.
Anyone with information that may assist investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.
- If you or someone you know needs help contact Lifeline 13 11 14 or beyondblue 1300 22 4636.
