Police investigate suspected murder of mother of three
A mother of three found dead at a Phillip Island property is being investigated by the homicide squad.
The body of Samantha Fraser, 38, was found in the garage of a Seagrove Way property in Cowes during a welfare check on Monday, after she failed to pick up her three kids from a local primary school.
Ms Fraser dropped off her two daughters and a son in the morning, then caught up with friends for coffee. She told them she had a midday appointment, but she failed to show up for it.
Police attended the property at 4.30pm to check on her, and found her body in the garage.
A post-mortem was conducted, and homicide squad detectives have now taken over the investigation.
"Based on the circumstances of her death, it is strongly believed to be suspicious and will now be investigated by detectives from the homicide squad," a police spokesman said.
"Police are also investigating whether there was any interference with the crime scene."
Investigators have spoken to a 42-year old Paynesville man who was known to Ms Fraser, but he has since been released without charge.
The death has rocked the tight-knit community, with a fundraiser started by a friend for Ms Fraser's family and her children already raising over $13,000.
Friends have posted tributes on the online fundraising page.
"Sam Fraser, a beautiful 38-year-old mother of three died in tragic circumstances on Monday. Her family and our community are devastated by her loss," on friend wrote.
"So beautiful inside and out. Our coffee date last week will be treasured forever. Thinking of everyone affected especially your beautiful children, so so sad," another wrote.
Detectives are now appealing to anyone with dash cam footage from Philip Island, particularly between Seagrove Way and San Remo, as well as CCTV footage near the property where Ms Fraser was found.
They also wish to speak to anyone who may have entered the Seagrove Way property on the day of Ms Fraser's death, or anyone who noticed suspicious activity around her property over the previous days.
Police would particularly like to speak to anyone who can provide information on Ms Fraser's movements between 11am and 3.30pm last Monday.