SA Police said yesterday they are very confident they found 39-year-old Susan’s remains and have since charged a man with murder.
Susan disappeared in 2002 and, until yesterday, her body had never been found.
Major crime detectives discovered human remains while digging up a backyard in Port Lincoln in the state’s Eyre Peninsula.
Police then arrested and charged a 64-year-old man from Port Lincoln with murder.
He is expected to appear in Port Lincoln Magistrates Court today.
Both of Susan’s parents have died but police spoke to her partner and sister yesterday.
Susan’s family expressed their gratitude to the police for their tireless efforts in searching for her remains, stating that they finally have the answers they had been seeking for so long.
“We also want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has accompanied us on this journey over the years, whether as friends or through investigations. Your unwavering support, compassion, and dedication to finding the truth have meant more to us than words can express,” the family noted in a statement.
“You’ve helped carry us through some of the hardest moments and we are incredibly grateful for that.
“Now, we embark on a deeply personal journey as we attempt to come to terms with the events that transpired, prepare to lay Sue to rest alongside family members who have passed before her, and strive to find a sense of peace and acceptance within ourselves.”
The family asked for privacy following an “emotional and difficult time”.
“We’re dealing with a lot and we ask for privacy and space so that we can look after our mental health and support each other,” the statement ended.
Susan was reported missing on Friday, July 18, 2002, from her home on Moonta Crescent at Port Lincoln.
She was last seen around lunchtime that day, after shopping at Coles and Woolworths in Port Lincoln.
Police previously offered a $200,000 reward for any information which led to a conviction or discovery of Susan’s remains.
