Ian MacKenzie's death not suspicious, police say

By Max Stainkamph

Jan 19, 2021

Police investigations have determined Shepparton man Ian MacKenzie’s death was not suspicious, with the 67-year-old walking to the spot his body was later found.

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Mr MacKenzie disappeared from The Cricketers’ Arms hotel in Mooroopna at 12.30am on December 24 and his body was found on December 30.

Police and Mr MacKenzie’s family and friends were initially unsure how he had made his way to the corner of Lenne St and Toolamba Rd, as he had severe mobility issues.

But CCTV - sent in following a public appeal - has shown Mr MacKenzie walking near the spot he was found.

Shepparton Police Crime Investigations Unit's Detective Sergeant Jason Williams said while a report would still be prepared for the coroner, police were no longer treating the death as suspicious.

“After revision and enhancement of CCTV footage from business around Mooroopna, we’ve satisfied ourselves he was by himself,” he said.

“It appears it’s been a tragic case of loss of direction.”

He thanked the Shepparton and Mooroopna communities for their help.

By Max Stainkamph

Journalist