Sandra Popovic: Body found after Ante Popovic charged with kidnapping and murdering mother in Sydney
After an Aussie mum was last seen by family over two weeks ago, a body has been found and her son has been charged with murder.
After an Aussie mum was last seen by family over two weeks ago, a body has been found and her son has been charged with murder.
A major search had been launched for mum Sandra Popovic, 58, after she did not return home on June 9.
The Sydney mum had not been seen after she went to see her son, Ante Popovic, in the Sydney suburb of Winston Hills on June 8.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.After she failed to return home, Ms Popovic’s car was located on Dodson Cresent in Winston Hills on June 9.
Following the discovery, NSW Police launched an investigation.
Following “extensive inquiries”, NSW Police located Ante, arresting him on June 11, later charging him with kidnapping and murder.
He was found nearly 200kms away south of Sydney.
“Following extensive inquiries, detectives arrested a 34-year-old man, at Tomerong, about 20km south of Nowra, on Thursday 11 June 2026. He has since been charged with her murder and remains before the court.”
Police say the alleged meeting between the two may have involved a discussion about money.
“It’ll be alleged that they were meeting there to talk about perhaps borrowing some money,” Superintendent Barry Vincent said.
“When the family were informed of the action taken by police... they were obviously shocked.”
NSW Police also alleged that the mother and son were “estranged”.
Following the arrest, the assumed remains of Ms Popovic had not been found.
NSW Police alleged during the search that Ante had driven west of Sydney following the meeting with his mother.
After a major operation involving multiple agencies, NSW Police believe they have found the mother’s remains.
“About 2.30pm on Sunday 21 June 2026, investigators, with assistance from officers attached to the Rescue and Bomb Disposal Unit, the Rural Fire Service, State Emergency Service and Volunteer Rescue Association, located a body in bushland near Mt Banks Road, Mt Banks, in the Blue Mountains National Park,” NSW Police said on Friday morning.
“The body is yet to be formally identified; however, is believed to be that of the missing woman.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
