Reward Doubled in Bowen Cold Case

Queensland police have increased the reward to $500,000 for information leading to the apprehension and conviction of those responsible for the 1997 murder of Dianne Mary Angwin in Bowen.

Angwin, 50, was fatally stabbed inside her unit on Leichhardt Street at about 12:30 a.m. on December 2, 1997. Police allege an unknown man entered the unit, confronted Angwin’s housemate, and followed Angwin before killing her. She was taken to Bowen Base Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

The Queensland Police Service’s Homicide Cold Case Investigation Team has begun a renewed review of the case, including enhanced forensic testing of evidence recovered from the scene. Investigators are also examining information about a relationship Angwin allegedly had with a local married man who had been seen at her unit.

Police said Angwin’s former housemate, Edith “Edie” Lay, who died in 2022, had reportedly told others that she knew the attacker’s identity but had not informed police because she feared for her safety. Detectives will revisit witnesses and people of interest in Bowen, Cairns and Victoria, while a mobile police facility will operate in Bowen’s central business district. Information can be provided confidentially to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestoppersqld.com.au. The reward includes possible indemnity from prosecution for an accomplice who provides information, excluding the person who committed the murder.