$500,000 Reward Offered For Info About Newcastle Woman’s Death

A $500,000 reward has been announced by the NSW Government and NSW Police Force as detectives intensify their investigation into the mysterious death of a Newcastle woman whose body was discovered in the Blue Mountains over six years ago.

Cecilia Devine, also known as Kristen Pearson, was 41 years old when she was reported missing from Waratah on 5 September 2018. Despite an extensive search by Newcastle City Police District officers, her whereabouts remained unknown.

Tragically, on 18 March 2019, staff at a water treatment facility in Katoomba found human remains in the Upper Cascade Creek Dam. A month later, it was confirmed that the remains belonged to Cecilia.

Detectives from Blue Mountains Police Area Command, supported by the Homicide Squad, established Strike Force Eking to investigate the circumstances surrounding Cecilia’s death. However, despite public appeals and multiple lines of inquiry, the cause of her death remains unclear.

Today, 22 October 2024, a $500,000 reward was announced, with hopes that the significant sum will lead to new information regarding Cecilia’s untimely passing. Police are seeking details that could lead to an arrest and conviction of those responsible.

Superintendent John Nelson, Commander of Blue Mountains Police Area Command, expressed optimism that the reward might finally yield critical information.

“Cecilia travelled from Newcastle to Katoomba, but we still have unanswered questions about how and why she made this journey, and ultimately, how she died,” Supt Nelson said. “We urge anyone with information about her movements around the time she was reported missing to come forward. Even the smallest detail could be key to solving this case.”

Cecilia’s mother, Kathy Pearson, welcomed the reward, hoping it would bring much-needed closure.

“My daughter, Kristen, was a beautiful soul, taken from us in heartbreaking circumstances,” Ms Pearson said. “She was a talented singer, full of life and joy. We pray that this reward encourages anyone with information to speak up and help bring peace to our family.”

The investigation under Strike Force Eking continues, with detectives determined to uncover the truth behind Cecilia’s tragic death. Anyone with information is urged to contact NSW Police or Crime Stoppers.