In June 2001, Rachelle Childs went missing after leaving work in Camden, south-west of Sydney. Just nine hours later, her body was discovered burning in Gerroa, approximately 110 kilometers from where her car was found parked at a local pub. Nearly 24 years on, her murder remains unsolved, despite extensive investigations and urgent calls for renewed efforts.
A coronial inquest concluded that Rachelle had been deliberately killed but left authorities lacking enough evidence to identify her murderer. At that time, only one person of interest remained in the case. Tragically, her family has fought an uphill battle for nearly a quarter of a century, appealing to the authorities for justice—with little response.
Rachelle's sister, Kristy Childs, has become the vocal heart of this movement for answers, penning a heartfelt letter to the New South Wales Police Minister Yasmin Catley in March 2024, imploring her to reopen the investigation and reinstate a reward of $500,000 for information that could lead to a breakthrough. Despite the compelling nature of Kristy’s appeal, the minister’s office did not respond directly to her inquiry, a decision that has been deemed "disgusting" by former detectives involved in solving cold cases.
"Losing Rachelle in such a horrific manner is indescribable, and this is compounded by the knowledge that her killer remains at large," Kristy wrote, emphasizing the pain and frustration of needing answers regarding her sister's brutal demise. Her words conveyed a deep sense of loss, highlighting Rachelle's vibrant personality, describing her as beautiful, brave, and kind. She expressed that Rachelle was not just a victim, but a loved one who is profoundly missed.
The initial investigation faced criticism for its handling of the case. A $100,000 reward was offered for information at the time, which was later doubled in 2011, but no one came forward with actionable leads despite the escalation in offered incentives. Investigative missteps by the police are believed to have contributed significantly to the inability to resolve Rachelle's case.
Retired detective Damian Loone, known for his role in bringing notorious cases to justice, has recently taken an interest in Rachelle’s murder case, asserting that it is solvable. His determination reveals a steadfast belief that with the right focus and resources, there is a possibility for advancement in the investigation. "The most important part of what happened to Rachelle is that this matter is solvable," he insists.
However, Kristy learned recently in a meeting with unsolved homicide investigators that none of them were familiar with Rachelle's case. The lack of communication and familiarity among the authorities leaves the family feeling frustrated and neglected. "So you're not across this case?" she asked an officer, who responded bluntly, “No, I’m not.” This revelation indicates a significant disconnect within the investigative body that is tasked with resolving cold cases.
Dissatisfaction with the responses—or lack thereof—from the minister's office has sparked outrage from advocates and friends of the Childs family. Loone and former Detective Inspector Mick Ashwood have joined forces, arguing passionately that Rachelle’s case requires and deserves renewed scrutiny.
The tragic circumstances surrounding Rachelle's death have ignited fears that a serial killer may be lurking in the shadows, given that her body was discovered in proximity to another murder victim. This has added another layer of urgency to the investigation, as the community grapples with the implications of unresolved violent crimes against women.
In light of her family’s suffering and ongoing appeals for justice, the police ministry has finally committed to launching a re-investigation into the case. This renewed effort comes after Kristy faced contempt from the minister's office regarding her heartfelt concerns. After Rachelle’s murder, advocates emphasized the need for compassion, accountability, and a more thorough approach to unsolved cases. As highlighted by Loone, "It’s inexcusable that the minister couldn’t find a few minutes in her day to reply to her directly. Where’s the compassion?"
In response, the minister has expressed her deepest sympathies to Kristy and her family, emphasizing the importance of ensuring all correspondence receives a reply through the most relevant bodies. Although she has stated that she does not play a role in setting rewards, the emotional toll on the family is evident.
As of March 2025, Kristy Childs remains determined to honor her sister’s memory and obtain justice. Despite the heart-wrenching trials endured over the past 24 years, she continues to advocate for a thorough investigation into Rachelle’s murder, reinforced by the belief that the right leads might still emerge with focused efforts. The story of Rachelle Childs is not just a call for justice; it is a poignant reminder of the families left to grapple with the unresolved fates of their loved ones, urged to turn every stone in their search for the truth.
