Cops say slain widow last used credit card two weeks before body found
An elderly widow who was killed in Melbourne's west last touched her bank account or credit cards two weeks before a neighbour discovered her body inside her home.
Renewing their plea for information, police on Tuesday also confirmed nothing had been stolen from her home in Marlborough Way, Sydenham where the 77-year-old was found on the morning of Saturday, April 6.
Detectives set up an information caravan in Sydenham at the intersection of the Melton Highway Service Road and Stratheden Court on Tuesday in the hope that someone will provide clues to a breakthrough.
Forensic police also returned to Mrs Ramadan’s home and the vacant home next door frequented by squatters.
Detective Senior Sergeant Pixie Fuhrmeister said that though the investigation was progressing, police still needed more information on Mrs Ramadan’s whereabouts on or after March 23, the last day she used her credit cards.
Senior Sergeant Fuhrmeister also called for anyone who has information about anyone being at Mrs Ramadan’s house on or after March 23 to come forward.
Locals have left flowers and cards at Mrs Ramadan’s front door in tribute to her.
“It’s incredibly disturbing that an elderly lady has been assaulted in her home and left to die,” Senior Sergeant Fuhrmeister said.
Senior Sergeant Fuhrmeister said although they had spoken to a number of people who had been squatting at the house next door, police were still trying to “eliminate anyone from those inquiries”.
Detectives are again reiterating Mrs Ramadan was often seen walking and was known to use public transport, in particular buses and taxis. She also regularly visited the Watergardens shopping centre and was well known by local traders.
Police have confirmed Ms Ramadan, who was estranged from her two children, had made multiple reports to police, including that her house had been burgled, in the lead-up to her death.
Police are also investigating whether Mrs Ramadan's house was broken into or if she let someone into her home that she knew, and have been collating CCTV footage from other homes in her street.
After discounting the last reported sighting, detectives are working to narrow down the timeline of Mrs Ramadan's final movements.
A neighbour described Mrs Ramadan as "a lovely lady that would sit on her porch and say hello every morning. She loved dogs and kids – they put a smile on her face".
Anyone with any information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.