Police Apologize Over Decades-Old Unsolved Death of Perth Mother

The Commissioner of Western Australia's police force has formally apologized to the family of Amy Wensley, a Perth mother whose death in 2014 remains unsolved. Commissioner Col Blanch met with Ms. Wensley's mother, Nancy Kirk, and other family members in January to acknowledge "shortcomings" in the initial police investigation.

Ms. Wensley, 24, was found dead in her Serpentine home in June 2014 with a gunshot wound to the head. Police initially declared her death a suicide. However, a coronial inquest held six-and-a-half years later concluded with an open finding. Deputy Coroner Sarah Linton stated that police had made "premature decisions" and that a "forensic opportunity was lost," leaving "too many unknowns" to determine the cause of death.

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During that meeting, the commissioner acknowledged shortcomings in the initial police investigation and apologised to the family.

Despite the passage of time, the WA Police Force remains committed to solving the case. Since August 2024, dedicated investigators have been re-examining all available information. The police statement emphasized their commitment to pursuing "all available lines of inquiry" and ensuring "every reasonable investigative avenue is pursued."

A $1 million reward is still being offered for any information that could lead to solving the cold case. Police believe individuals may possess information about Ms. Wensley's death who have not yet come forward or may now be willing to speak. They urge anyone with relevant information to contact Crime Stoppers. In 2022, WA Police had stated that they had revised their practices and procedures to enhance oversight and awareness of family violence following a report on the case.

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The WA Police Force remains committed to the investigation and to ensuring every reasonable investigative avenue is pursued.