Mystery death in Hobart: Man’s body found in industrial bin sparks police investigation

Ethan James
AAP
Police are investigating the discovery of a man's body in a bin at the rear of a business in Hobart.
Police are investigating the discovery of a man's body in a bin at the rear of a business in Hobart. Credit: AAP

Police are trying to determine the final movements of a father of two whose body was found in a large industrial bin behind suburban shops.

A garbage contractor made the grisly discovery about 9am on Monday at Bellerive in Hobart, initially believing it was a mannequin.

The 45-year-old’s death could have been caused by foul play or misadventure, or both, Tasmania Police believe.

Sign up to The Nightly's newsletters.

Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.

Email Us
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.

“The garbage contractor attended the business premises as he would normally do,” Detective Inspector David Gill said.

“He has lifted the lids on a number of large bins and found the male … deceased.”

The man, whose name has not been made public, was known to police and had been homeless for a couple of months.

Det Insp Gill did not confirm whether the man had been sleeping in the bin, which is behind a hairdresser’s and Salvation Army store.

He was last seen alive by his children on Saturday night, and there were “no issues” with the visit, Det Insp Gill said.

“We’re trying to close the timeline as we’re continuing the investigation,” he said.

There was no evidence that the man suffered any injuries.

An autopsy will be conducted on Tuesday, while police will review CCTV as part of their investigation.

The area at the back of the shops is known to be frequented by people sleeping rough, Det Insp Gill said.

Latest Edition

The Nightly cover for 03-06-2025

Latest Edition

Edition Edition 3 June 20253 June 2025

Chef accused of fatal lunch admits hunting for mushrooms.