Australian Woman Samantha Murphy Goes Missing During Morning Run
Samantha Murphy, a 51-year-old woman from Ballarat, Victoria, went missing on 4 February 2024 after leaving her home for a morning run. Despite extensive search efforts, no trace of her was initially found. Authorities later classified her disappearance as suspicious, and on 6 March 2024, a suspect was arrested and charged with murder. However, Murphy’s body has yet to be recovered.
Background
Born on 30 March 1972, Samantha Murphy was a Ballarat resident, mother of three, and co-owner of a small business with her husband, Michael Murphy. She was known for being an avid runner and often exercised in the nearby Woowookarung Regional Park.
The Disappearance
On 3 February 2024, Murphy had dinner with her husband and friends, where she mentioned her plan to run 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) the next morning. On 4 February, CCTV footage captured her leaving home around 7 AM AEDT. She was supposed to attend a family gathering at 11 AM, but when she failed to arrive, her family reported her missing.
Search and Investigation
Authorities began an extensive search operation across Ballarat and surrounding areas, including Woowookarung Regional Park, Buninyong, and Mount Clear. Murphy’s mobile phone last connected to a cell tower in Buninyong, and GPS data suggested she had run approximately 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) before an unexplained disturbance.
Despite efforts from Victoria Police, Search and Rescue Squad, Mounted Branch, Air Wing, and volunteers, no immediate evidence was found. On 23 February, police announced that they believed Murphy was deceased, suspecting foul play.
Arrest and Murder Charge
On 6 March 2024, Patrick Orren Stephenson, a 22-year-old from Scotsburn, was arrested in connection with Murphy’s disappearance. The following day, he was formally charged with murder. Investigators suspect that Murphy was killed at Mount Clear, though Stephenson had no prior connection to her. Initially, a suppression order was placed on his identity, but it was later lifted.
Discovery of Personal Belongings
On 29 May 2024, Murphy’s wallet, ID cards, and mobile phone were discovered near an agricultural dam in Durham Lead, roughly 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) south of Buninyong. However, her body remains missing, and the search continues.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to gather evidence in hopes of locating Murphy’s remains and providing closure to her family. The case has drawn nationwide attention, with extensive public involvement in search efforts.