Peter McCarthy died in botched South Coogee robbery, police say

The family of a retired solicitor and well-liked South Coogee lawyer say his brutal bashing death is a devastating blow before Christmas.

The family of a retired solicitor and “knockabout” local of Sydney’s eastern beaches who was brutally bashed to death inside his home said the homicide was a devastating blow before Christmas.

Peter McCarthy, 70, was last seen on CCTV inside Sydney’s Club York on December 16. Four days later Mr McCarthy’s ex-wife found his body, bearing severe head and face injuries, inside his unit on Elphinstone Rd at South Coogee.

Homicide detectives today released a CCTV image of a man and woman they believe have information regarding Mr McCarthy’s final movements.

Peter McCarthy.

Homicide detectives today released a CCTV image of a man and woman they believe have information regarding Peter McCarthy’s final movements. Picture: NSW Police

Mr McCarthy’s son James said in a statement today “our family is devastated and still coming to terms with the loss of our father and grandfather”.

“We have all been deeply affected by this tragedy, especially at what should be a time of celebration and joy this Christmas.

“We are grateful for the ongoing support from our family and friends and urge anyone in the community with information about the circumstances surrounding Dad’s death to please come forward and speak with police.”

CCTV images of Mr McCarthy at Club York in Sydney’s CBD.

He was pictured at the venue last Wednesday.

Police believe Mr McCarthy’s death was a robbery that turned deadly. The brown satchel he was seen wearing at Club York had been taken from the unit, containing his phone.

There are unconfirmed reports he was seen in his home alive on Thursday, the day after he was captured on one of his regular visits to Club York in the city.

Mr McCarthy held a prominent place in his South Coogee neighbourhood. He was a well-liked former solicitor who liked a drink, a bet and chat, according to police.

“He was a knockabout (guy) … he liked having a drink he liked having a bet down the local and a very much liked person by anyone who ever met him,” Homicide Squad Commander, Superintendent Danny Doherty said.

Supt Doherty would not elaborate on the link between the man and woman in vision released by police and Mr McCarthy’s death but urged the two to contact police immediately.

“This is a horrendous crime, any murder, for the victim’s family is always difficult, it has a major impact on them. But in the circumstances leading up to Christmas it makes the grief even deeper.”