Crystal Beale: Homicide investigation launched after woman’s body found in Brisbane River at Yeronga

Police have launched a homicide investigation after a woman’s body was found in the Brisbane River last month.

The initial investigation had suggested the death was not suspicious but police now believe foul play may have been involved.

“Following extensive investigations, including the results of a postmortem, police now believe the death of 49-year-old Crystal Beale is suspicious and investigations are continuing into the circumstances that led to her death,” police said in a statement.

The 49-year-old was last seen in West End on the evening of February 21. Her body was discovered about 5.40am the next day by a member of the public in the river in Yeronga.

Detective Acting Inspector Rod Watts said several lines of inquiry were being examined, including collecting CCTV in the West End area.

A CCTV image of Ms Beale at a restaurant in Sunnybank from the night she went missing has been released. She was wearing a long slim fitting white dress and had a brown leather shoulder satchel across her body.

Ms Beale is described as Caucasian, slim build, approximately 165cm tall, with long brown hair.

“We believe Crystal was near the Brisbane River at Orleigh Park, West End and on Ryan Street, West End late on Friday February 21.”

“Our investigation has centred around collecting CCTV from this area and we are now making an appeal to anyone who may have been in this area between 9.30pm on Friday, February 21 and 1am the following morning and has seen Crystal or any suspicious behaviour to please come forward.”

“As this is an ongoing investigation, police are limited in what details we can disclose, but we are confident people saw Crystal on the night and they have information that will assist with our inquiries. We are urging anyone with any information, no matter how small, to contact police.”

Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at crimestoppersqld.com.au.