No charges laid after police question man over ‘respectable’ woman’s death in Burke

Police say no charges have been laid after a man was arrested following the discovery of a woman’s partially naked body in north-west New Wales.

The body of the 47-year-old woman, who police said was “well-known and well-respected”, was found outside her home in Parkdale Road, Bourke, just after 8am on Tuesday.

A 49-year-old man from Bourke, who police say was known to the woman, was arrested at the scene shortly after the woman’s body was found.

He has not been charged in connection with the death, but police charged the man in an unrelated incident on Oct. 27 when he allegedly threatened a 42-year-old man with a gun.

He is due to appear in court in November after being charged with intimidation with intent to cause harm.

A sign with the inscription — Police have renewed their appeal for information following the death of the Bourke woman. (ABC Western Plains: Zaarkacha Marlan)

Public appeal for help

NSW Police said homicide detectives conducted a thorough search of the area and the woman’s home.

A post-mortem examination is expected in a few days.

The police again appealed to citizens for help in the investigation.

“I have spoken with family members and we continue to support them and keep them informed,” North Central District Police Chief Gerard Lawson said in a statement.

“She was a well-known and respected long-standing member of the Bourke community for most of her life and her death has caused widespread grief.”

Police tape is tied to the tree. A police van is in the background. — Police say the investigation into the death of a Bourke woman earlier this week is ongoing. (ABC Western Plains: Catherine James)

In social networks, representatives of the community paid tribute to the woman.

“Devastated by the news. Rest in peace auntie. Sending love and strength to everyone,” one person wrote.

“I’ll never forget that cheeky smile,” said another tribute.

“Lovely memories of time spent together inside and out,” said another.

“The world will never be as bright without you.”