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Murder charge follows excavation find

A 24-year-old man has been charged with the murder of David Thornton, from Goodna, south of Brisbane. It comes after an excavation uncovered what are believed to be his remains in a buried freezer.

Police dig up yard in search for missing man (7 News Brisbane)

A 24-year-old man has been charged with the murder of David Thornton, from Goodna, south of Brisbane.

David Thornton.
David Thornton.

The man was arrested in Byron Bay today.

It came after an excavation at Mr Thornton’s property on Parker St, Goodna, uncovered what are believed to be his remains in a freezer buried in the backyard.

Mr Thornton had been reported missing on March 20 but his neighbours had said he was last seen there in January.

Detectives allege the accused man had known Mr Thornton for several years. They said the pair were not related.

An autopsy is being carried out today but police suspect the remains belong to Mr Thornton.

Detective Inspector David Briese said the man, from Peaks Crossing in Queensland, had planned to travel to Byron Bay for some time and had been in the area for a matter of days.

He was taken into custody “without fuss”, Det Insp Briese said.

Police at the Parker St, Goodna, home. Picture: AAP/Richard Waugh
Police at the Parker St, Goodna, home. Picture: AAP/Richard Waugh

Police will apply for extradition in the Byron Bay Magistrates Court tomorrow.

Det Insp Briese said police were still determining a motive and the man had been somewhat cooperative.

Police are not currently looking for any other alleged offenders.

Original URL: https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/crime-and-justice/murder-charge-follows-excavation-find/news-story/118f7e96fe9ddafea639140f35f0a9c7