Craig John Vincent is charged with murdering Gatton businessman Jim Hill

Detectives say the well-known business owner was brutally beaten in his own home, now a year later they have charged the accused killer with murder.

Jim Hill died from injuries suffered after he was assaulted in his Gatton home in 2024.

Craig John Vincent has had his charges upgraded to murder as police continue to investigate the death of retired Gatton businessman Jim Hill.

Police allege that sometime between 6pm and 7pm on April 25, 2024, Mr Vincent entered the Mr Hill’s Hood St home and assaulted him

It is understood Mr Hill, 76, was able to contact a family member who then rang the police.

Emergency services arrived at the house a short time later and located Mr Hill with serious injuries.

He was transported to the Toowoomba Hospital.

Mr Hill appeared to be recovering from his injuries before his condition rapidly deteriorated, and he passed away on Sunday, May 5.

Mr Vincent, 53, was initially charged with a number of offences including one count each of enter dwelling with intent by break at night, deprivation of liberty, acts intended to cause grievous bodily harm and wilful damage.

Gatton and Minden Bus Service owner Jim Hill was well known in his community and operated Queensland’s oldest registered bus - a 1917 GMC.

Following further investigations by the Gatton Criminal Investigation Branch, detectives have now charged the man with murder.

Mr Vincent remains in custody and is due to appear in the Ipswich Magistrates Court on April 2.

Mr Hill owned the Gatton and Minden Bus Service and was well-known in the town for offering free rides in his 1917 GMC – Australia’s oldest registered bus.

Daughter and business co-owner Tayla Hill said her father was “incredibly generous” to people he cared about and had deep affection for Gatton.

“He was a larger-than-life character — he always had a funny story to tell, he was heavily involved in the transport industry for 50-plus years,” she said.

“As a father, he always made sure we didn’t go without, and towards anyone he cared about he was a generous man.

“He worked and did play hard occasionally and knew how to enjoy himself.

Originally published as Craig John Vincent is charged with murdering Gatton businessman Jim Hill