New Clues Emerge In John Hackett’s Suspicious Death

Detectives are appealing for more information as they continue to investigate the suspicious death of John Patrick Hackett, who was found deceased in his home on Gold Street in Mackay in November last year.

On the 9th of November, 67-year-old John Patrick Hackett was located deceased at his unit following a welfare check by family members.

A crime scene was declared, and police launched a homicide investigation, Operation Whiskey Glen, following results from a post-mortem examination indicating evidence of an assault.

On the 22nd of January, Detective Inspector Emma Novosel, from Crime and Support Services for the Mackay and Whitsunday District, confirmed that "A post-mortem examination has indicated that John's death was the result of head trauma."

Detectives investigating the suspicious death of Mr Hackett are now seeking to speak with anyone who may have witnessed anything suspicious or who has dashcam footage or CCTV recordings within the Gold Street vicinity on the morning of the 6th of November, 2024.

"We originally asked for people who saw John on the day prior, Melbourne Cup Day, but we’ve now widened the timeline and encourage anyone who may have been in the Gold Street, Shakespeare Street, or Goldsmith Street area between 6am and 10am on the 6th of November to come forward with any information,” said Detective Inspector Novosel.

“We're looking for any piece of information that may assist us with establishing what happened to John."

Detective Inspector Novosel also stated that a man who had spoken with Mr Hackett came forward to inform police about a conversation he had with John on the 6th of November.

“We had a witness come forward, who was able to give us information that he had had a conversation with John at the hotel on that afternoon.”

The witness was not previously known to police and was reported to be from out of state.

Detectives continue to urge anyone with information to contact police or Crime Stoppers.

"Anyone who was in the area of Gold Street on the morning of the 6th of November, whether on foot or in a vehicle, is encouraged to contact police," said Detective Novosel.

"Homicide investigations are often complex…Any small piece of information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, can help us move in a new direction."

Detective Novosel added, "The family is really thankful for the support they’ve received from the community, and we’re working through the information we’ve received to move the investigation forward.

"On behalf of John's family and friends, I'd like to thank the community for their assistance in the recent appeal."

Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Reference number: QP2401927535

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Detective Inspector Emma Novosel, from Crime and Support Services for the Mackay and Whitsunday District, is urging anyone with information regarding the suspicious death of John Patrick Hackett to come forward as new information begins to surface. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  

Vision of John Patrick Hackett days before he was found deceased in his home. Photo supplied: QPS Media

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