The death of notorious outback killer Bradley Murdoch has ignited hope in the search for British backpacker Peter Falconio’s remains.

Investigators today declined an interview request from 9News, saying their focus remains on finding the victim’s body.

The news outlet, 9News, reports that the police have been evaluating new leads since the reward for information regarding the discovery of Falconio’s remains was raised to $500,000 last month.

Authorities have speculated that Murdoch’s death might prompt a previously hesitant third party to provide information. Although Murdoch never shared essential details with investigators, it is possible he spoke with someone close to him.

Former chief investigator Colleen Gwynne mentioned, “With his death, there might be individuals who now feel less threatened or influenced by him, motivated by the reward provided by the Northern Territory Police to step forward.”

Police say the case won’t be closed until they solve the decades-old mystery and deliver some degree of closure to the Falconio family, who are waiting desperately for answers.