Breakthrough in 23-year-old Cold Case: Remains of Susan Goodwin Found

Port Lincoln, South Australia, 2025-09-18- In the case of Susan Goodwin, who vanished from Port Lincoln in July 2002, South Australian police have made significant progress after more than 20 years of unresolved issues.

Investigators discovered human remains thought to be Goodwin’s during an excavation this week. The discovery was made on a property close to Port Lincoln, where anthropologists and crime scene specialists were among the forensic teams dispatched to meticulously retrieve evidence. A 64-year-old man has been taken into custody and charged with Goodwin’s murder, according to police confirmation. Following the discovery of the remains, he was placed under arrest and is anticipated to appear in court shortly. Since forensic testing on the bones is still in progress, authorities have not yet verified the cause of death.

The community of Port Lincoln had been troubled by Goodwin’s disappearance for a long time, and her family had been uncertain for years. The case had remained in the public consciousness because a $200,000 reward had been offered for information.

The discovery provided the family with long-awaited answers, according to Assistant Commissioner Stuart McLean, who called it a “significant step towards justice.” The discovery raises fresh hopes that one of South Australia’s most persistent mysteries is finally coming to light, even though the investigation is still ongoing.