For nearly 60 years, the disappearance of three young children, Jane, 9, Arnna, 7, and Grant, 4, has haunted Australia.
The siblings vanished without a trace during a family outing to Glenelg on a summer’s day in 1966.
Now, a team of forensic experts and earthmovers is about to begin a meticulous excavation at a former industrial site in suburban Adelaide, hoping to finally uncover the truth.
The Castalloy Connection
The site, formerly the Castalloy foundry, has been linked to the children’s disappearance due to its connection to Harry Phipps, a man who has emerged as the prime suspect.
Phipps, the owner of the foundry, has been accused of kidnapping, murdering, and burying the children on his property.
This excavation aims to provide conclusive evidence to either confirm or rule out Phipps’ involvement.
A Decades-Long Search
This is not the first time the Castalloy site has been searched. In 2013 and 2018, police conducted excavations based on eyewitness accounts and claims from two brothers who alleged that Phipps paid them to dig a “grave-sized” hole on the factory site.
However, new information suggests that the previous searches may not have gone deep enough, prompting this latest effort.
New Evidence and Cutting-Edge Technology
The latest excavation is guided by “new and reliable” information, including eyewitness accounts and photographic evidence from 1966.
The team will use advanced technology, including the expertise of archaeological scientist Professor Ian Moffat and anthropologist Professor Maciej Henneberg, to locate any potential hidden graves.
The excavation will focus on a 50m long and 7-8m wide area, with a bulldozer initially used to strip the topsoil and reveal any disturbances to the geological layer.
A 50% Chance of Finding Something Significant
Professor Henneberg estimates that there is an “about 50 per cent” probability of finding something significant during the excavation.
The investigation is expected to last around a week, and the team is hopeful that they will finally uncover the truth behind the Beaumont children’s disappearance.
A Breakthrough in the Case?
Independent MP Frank Pangallo, who has been instrumental in organizing the dig, has revealed that his office has received “staggering, disturbing” information that points to Harry Phipps as the prime suspect.
While the information is still being verified, it is seen as a significant breakthrough in the case.
A $1 Million Reward for Information
The Australian government is offering a $1 million reward for information leading to a conviction in the case and/or the recovery of the children’s remains.
As the excavation begins, the nation holds its breath, hoping that finally, after nearly 60 years, the truth will be revealed, and the Beaumont family can find closure.
The search for answers starts on Saturday with the removal of trees, and the dig will commence on Monday. Will this excavation finally bring an end to Australia’s most infamous unsolved crime? Only time will tell.