Police are appealing for anyone who may have collected driver dashcam footage from the Bellambi area in the early hours of Friday morning to come forward, as investigations into the suspicious death of Kristie Poweel continue.
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Ms Powell, 39, was found dead outside a bedroom at her home on Lorking Street home about 1.10am, when a friend raised the alarm.
Detectives have since issued an appeal to locate Bhanu Kirkman who may be able to assist with their inquiries.
Police have asked that members of the public not approach the man, but instead contact them.
Kirkman, aged 29, is described as being of Indian/sub-continental appearance, about 180cm to 185cm tall, with a large build and black hair.
He and Ms Powell had previously been friends and he helped her care for rescue dogs (she was a foster carer for Wollongong Animal Rescue Network).
He has previously described himself as living in Thirroul, though detectives have been unable to find him there in the days since Ms Powell’s death.
Speaking to the media on Saturday afternoon, Wollongong crime manager Detective Inspector Brad Ainsworth asked the community to be on the lookout for anyone matching Kirkman’s description.
"We believe he is really someone who will help us with our enquiries thus far,” he said.
"We know he was an acquaintance of [Ms Powell] and maybe shed some light on where we're going.”
Det Insp Ainsworth confirm Kirkman was already wanted on outstanding warrants.
"He has had some minor dealings with police for resisting arrest and some drug related possession which is why he's subject to a warrant,” Det Insp Ainsworth said.
"We would be asking members of the public if they know where he is or they sight him, definitely call triple zero or ring Crime Stoppers."
Ms Powell’s five-month-old son, who was found uninjured just metres from her body, is now in the care of grandparents.
Contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.
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Angela Thompson
Proudly Illawarra Mercury since 2008; these days covering crime and justice issues. UOW alum. Thrilled by the chase and sobered by some of the things I see and hear when I stand still - sometimes in the same day. ang.thompson@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Proudly Illawarra Mercury since 2008; these days covering crime and justice issues. UOW alum. Thrilled by the chase and sobered by some of the things I see and hear when I stand still - sometimes in the same day. ang.thompson@austcommunitymedia.com.au
