Victoria Police have arrested a 22-year-old Scotsburn man in connection with the suspicious disappearance of a Ballarat woman, Samantha Murphy.
The arrest took place at the suspect’s home shortly after 6 am on Wednesday.
He was subsequently interviewed by police and charged with one count of murder.
Stay up-to-date on the latest news with The National Briefing – keeping you in the loop with news as it hits:
The man will face Ballarat Magistrates’ Court this afternoon.
However, authorities are yet to recover Samantha Murphy‘s body and the investigation remains ongoing.
Ms Murphy, a mother of three living in Ballarat East, went missing on February 4 after leaving her Eureka Street home for a morning run.
Despite extensive searches in the Canadian Forest area and a comprehensive investigation, no trace of the 51-year-old has been found.
Ms Murphy was last seen wearing a maroon running shirt, black leggings, and an Apple watch, However, police said her phone, watch, and headphones have yet to be located.
Last month, authorities expressed skepticism about Ms Murphy still being alive and were investigating the possibility that she may have been “removed” from the area.
Detective Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt, said a significant search and investigation has been undertaken in an effort to find Ms Murphy since the start of February.
“This has included a dedicated and committed investigative effort led by the Missing Persons squad and also involving detectives from right across Crime Command, Counter Terrorism Command and Western Region,” Superintendent Hatt said.
“This has been further supported by a range of specialist resources from across Victoria Police,” he said.
“Our thoughts today are with Samantha’s family and friends.”
Anyone with any information about Samantha’s disappearance is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report online at www.crimestoppers.com.au
Subscribe to The Briefing, Australia’s fastest-growing news podcast on LiSTNR today. The Briefing serves up the latest news and deep dives on topics affecting you, all in under 20 minutes.