Neighbours may hold clue to Springbank murder

crime scene
Police at the Springbank property. Photo: Lachlan Bence (Ballarat Courier)

Police believe neighbours hold the clue to the death of a Springbank man whose body was found on his 90th birthday.

Ken Handford, known as Kenny, was found by a neighbour at his Barkstead Road home last Tuesday. It’s believed he could have been dead for several days.

Detective Inspector Mick Hughes said the war veteran’s death could be linked to a burglary as the property had been rummaged through.

“It hasn’t been ransacked, but it’s been searched. The drawers are open; clearly someone’s gone through the property,” he said. “I’d suggest they’re linked. I can’t see otherwise why you’d go into a 90-year-old man’s farm property.”

Mr Handford was last seen on Sunday, September 13, when he had coffee with a neighbour at about midday.

Police are trying to trace his steps after this and are urging the tightknit Springbank community to help them.

“I’m asking the local residents for their assistance,” Detective Inspector Hughes said. “Investigators want to hear from anyone who may have seen anything suspicious around the property, or who is aware of any concerns Mr Handford may have had.”

Mr Handford’s family said the ex-RAAF airman, who fought in WWII, did not deserve to die under such circumstances.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.