Former partner of Melbourne singer Joanne Howell arrested over her death
The former partner of Melbourne singer Joanne Howell has been arrested as part of an investigation into her death in 2007.
Homicide squad detectives arrested Paul Charlton, 66, at his home in Casterton, in the state's far south-west, on Wednesday morning.
Singer Joanne Howell.Credit:Victoria Police
Ms Howell, 51, who in the 1970s performed on ABC pop music show Countdown, was found just before 11.20pm on April 21 in 2007.
She had been bashed and strangled in her apartment in Poath Road, Hughesdale, in Melbourne’s south-east. Paramedics attended but she died at the scene.
Mr Charlton was being interviewed by police on Wednesday.
The arrest comes a week after police appealed to the public for information about Ms Howell's death.
The head of the homicide squad, Tim Day, said during the appeal that, Ms Howell's death was extremely violent.
"This was the murder of an innocent young woman in her home. It was an incredibly brutal and tragic end to Joanne’s life," he said.
"We owe it to Joanne’s family and we owe it to the broader community to bring the person responsible to account."
Neighbours reported a loud noise coming from the property between 9pm and 9.30pm.
Mr Charlton, a self-proclaimed pub karaoke king, was arrested at the scene, interviewed by detectives, and was subsequently released. He denied being the perpetrator.
At a 2011 inquest, coroner Paresa Spanos said evidence supported a finding that Ms Howell's former partner was involved in her death.
Anyone with information that could assist investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Simone is a crime reporter for The Age. Most recently she covered breaking news for The Age, and before that for The Australian in Melbourne.