Police offer $500,000 reward as they ramp up resources to solve cold case of dead singer found naked in dam

The remains of Cecilia Devine, who was also known as Kristen Pearson, were found in a water treatment facility on March 19 2019. Police believe she died about six months prior to her body being found, but the circumstances surrounding her death have always been a mystery.

The 42-year-old singer and songwriter, had been living and working in Newcastle, New South Wales, north of Sydney, Australia, at the time. She was last seen shopping and withdrawing money from an ATM in Katoomba, a town about a three hour drive from her home, in September 2018.

She was reported missing when her friends and family were unable to locate or contact her. CCTV from September 6 2018 showed Devine wearing a bright yellow cardigan, black trousers and carrying an orange handbag. Her body was found by staff at a water treatment facility in Katoomba in the Blue Mountains, west of Sydney.

Despite extensive investigations, police have been unable to find out what happened to her but are treating her death as suspicious. A coronial inquest held earlier this year determined Devine died sometime between September 6 and 13 2018, but was unable to state how she died.

The investigation has now been handed back to police, who have renewed their public appeal and announced a $500,000 (around £386,000) reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of any person or people responsible.

Superintendent John Nelson said he hopes the reward will encourage anyone who may have seen Cecilia to come forward. He said: “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.

“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. We are committed to find the answers the NSW community and Cecilia's family deserve.”

Devine's mum, Kathy Pearson, welcomed the ramped up investigation. She said: “Cecilia was a much-loved daughter, sister, and friend who was taken from us too soon in terrible circumstances.

“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.”

The investigation in to Devine’s death continues.