newy.com.au – Homicide Squad detectives have released CCTV of a man they are seeking to identify as they continue investigating the fatal stabbing of 38-year-old Jake Roarty during an alleged targeted home invasion at Argenton earlier this year.
Emergency services were called to Montgomery Street shortly after 4am on Sunday, 19 April, following reports of an assault at a townhouse. Lake Macquarie Police District officers found Mr Roarty suffering stab wounds, and he was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics but died at the scene.
Local police established a crime scene before the investigation was taken over by State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad under Strike Force Blave. Police have described the attack as targeted, but have not publicly disclosed a suspected motive, the weapon used, or the identities of those involved.
Early police information indicated six to eight people dressed in dark clothing with their faces covered had forced entry to the property, while later reporting referred to “at least four” masked intruders. The publicly reported number of offenders has therefore remained inconsistent. Police said the attack appeared to have unfolded quickly, and Mr Roarty was moved to the front of the property, where paramedics were unable to save him.
As part of their ongoing inquiries, detectives have released CCTV reportedly taken at a Mayfield service station several hours before the killing, about 13 kilometres from Argenton. The 38-second recording shows a young man getting out of the rear of a small silver hatchback and unsuccessfully attempting to refuel it.
Police have not accused the man of any offence and believe he may have information relevant to the investigation. He is described as being of Caucasian appearance, believed to be aged in his early 20s, with a thin build and blond hair. He was last seen at the Mayfield service station wearing a black jacket, black pants with a white graphic, a black cap and black shoes.
Detectives have not publicly explained why the man or the vehicle may be relevant to the case, and no arrest or charge has been announced. Investigators are particularly seeking mobile phone, dashcam or other footage from the relevant period that could assist the inquiry.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via the Crime Stoppers website. Information is managed confidentially, and police have asked people not to provide details through social-media comments.
