Man wanted for questioning over young mum’s murder in Bellambi

A SUSPECT has been named in the murder of mother Kristie Powell after police found “disturbing commentary” online about a man she feared.

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A SUSPECT has been named in the murder of mother Kristie Powell after police found “disturbing commentary” online about a man she feared.

However, despite her claims about her former employee Bhanu Kirkman, detectives said she had never lodged a formal complaint about her fears.

Ms Powell’s bloodied body was found at her home in Bellambi, a suburb of Wollongong, at 1am on Friday, with her unharmed five-month-old baby nearby.

Months before her death, Ms Powell posted about 29-year-old Kirkman, saying: “He is mentally unwell and I have contacted police about him on a few occasions but there is nothing they can do as he is considered non-threatening.”

Wanted on an outstanding warrant … Bhanu Kirkman.

Found dead … Kristie Powell.

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Ms Powell claimed Kirkman wrote her up to 100 messages a day, referred to himself as “the reaper” and told her “die Kristie, die”.

Wollongong Police district crime manager Detective Inspector Brad Ainsworth referred to online commentary by Kirkman as “very strong and very disturbing”.

“From our investigations we reviewed some Facebook images and commentary.

Forensic officers arrive at the Lorking Street address yesterday. John Grainger

Police search Corrimal train station yesterday. Picture: John Grainger

Officers from Wollongong Police District established a crime scene. Picture: John Grainger

There is some disturbing commentary,” he said. “We know he is an acquaintance of the deceased and we think he can maybe shed some light as to where we are going.”

It is understood Kirkman once worked for 39-year-old Ms Powell’s dog daycare business, Bow Wow Playschool and Boarding.

Despite her telling friends about the harassment, Insp Ainsworth said it was not officially reported.

Police found Ms Powell’s bloodied body inside her Lorking St home. Picture: John Grainger

He said while the situation was tragic, he questioned whether it was the catalyst for her murder.

“People engage in conversations in social media where there is truth to them or not,” he said.

There is already an arrest warrant out for Kirkman for fraud and drug offences.

He is described as Indian in appearance, 180cm tall with a large build and black hair.

Police urge anyone who sees Kirkman to call triple-0.