Mystery of unknown female 443 who died in St Kilda in 1961

SHE died in St Kilda more than 50 years ago, but despite extensive inquiries police still haven’t been able to solve the mystery of who this woman was.

THE IDENTITY of a woman who died in St Kilda more than 50 years ago remains a mystery.

Police are appealing for assistance to try and identify a woman known only as “unknown female 443”.

A facial reconstruction of the woman known as unknown female 443 who died in St Kilda in 1961.

The woman’s body was found lying next to train tracks in Alma Park in St Kilda on 3 March 1961.

Her death was not treated as suspicious and it’s believed she died of natural causes.

But an autopsy conducted in 1961 revealed a high concentration of alcohol in her blood at the time of her death.

Despite extensive inquiries to try and identify her over five decades, it seems no one knows who she is.

Police have not been able to notify next of kin.

A police artist has produced a facial reconstruction in the hope someone might recognise her.

Port Phillip Crime Investigation Unit Detective Senior Constable Adam Burnett said it was time “unknown female 443” was given an identity.

St Kilda Junction in the early 1960s. Picture: HWT Library

A mounted policeman directs traffic in St Kilda Road, near the former Royal Victorian Institute of the Blind, in the early 1960s. Picture: HWT Library

“For the past 55 years this woman has remained nameless,” he said.

“There must be someone out there who knew this woman and can help solve this half-century long mystery.”

She was believed to be about 55-years-old, about 173cm tall, slim build, dark/grey hair, pale complexion and hazel eyes.

At the time of her death she was found wearing a black skirt, red and white blouse, red cardigan, dark grey overcoat and black shoes.

She did not have any scars or tattoos but did have a complete set of dentures.

Anyone with information about the unidentified woman is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Originally published as Mystery of unknown female 443 who died in St Kilda in 1961