Major forensic lab backlog forces DNA in Mackay murder case overseas
A father accused of murdering his housemate faces a further nine-month wait as DNA evidence joins samples being shipped overseas because of lab backlogs.
A Mackay dad accused of violently murdering his housemate is facing further delays in his case over outstanding evidence results as it can be revealed DNA is being shipped overseas to help clear the backlog linked to the beleaguered Queensland forensic lab.
Samuel Luke Muntelwit was charged over the death of Colin Grohs on October 2, 2024, after paramedics found the 64-year-old unresponsive inside his Rae St property about 3.40pm.
He was declared dead at the scene and following an investigation, police charged Mr Muntelwit with murder.
It is alleged he had been staying with Mr Grohs before the pair were involved in a fight.
Mr Muntelwit has been in custody on remand since his arrest in 2024 and the matter has remained in Mackay Magistrates Court because some of the evidence – hair samples – is tied up with the Queensland Forensic Health Scientific Services.
An investigation led by Dr Kirsty Wright revealed it would take six years just to clear backlogs, without any new cases being added.
When Mr Muntelwit’s matters were mentioned in court on Wednesday, Magistrate Damien Dwyer said DNA samples were being sent to New Zealand and the United States to help clear the backlog but there was no time frame on when the results would be returned.
The court heard the DNA samples in relation to Mr Muntelwit’s case were being sent to the United States and it could take about nine months
Murder cases must ultimately be committed to the Supreme Court, where they are ultimately finalised.
Matters against Mr Muntelwit were adjourned until February for committal mention.
