UPDATE: A mystery man who was captured on police camera has handed in a second anonymous letter relating to the near-fatal bashing of Altona bookshop owner Jill Brookes.
Police are hoping that a $100,000 reward for information will entice the man to talk to them and lead to an arrest.
On the afternoon of July 20, 2012, police believe a man entered West Side Stories in Harrington Square and bashed Ms Brookes in a “frenzied” attack.
She was discovered by a fellow trader about 5pm in a pool of blood with her head caved in.
Her sister Susan, who asked that her last name not be used, says a second ceramic plate was put in her head after her body rejected the first.
Detective Senior Constable Matt Noonan, of Hobsons Bay crime investigation unit, said Ms Brookes was still not able to talk to police after 18 months.
He said that a man who had dropped off two letters obviously knew something about Ms Brookes’ assailant.
A first letter was dropped into Altona North police station on May 21 last year. It contained news clippings believed to be from the Weekly newspaper.
A second letter addressed to Altona police was dropped into the letterbox of an Altona home on July 2.
“The person is on video footage handing the first letter in but we’re unable to identify him from the image,” Detective Senior Constable Noonan said.
“There’s been a second letter that has obviously been provided to us that we’re still looking at the moment, so we’re hoping that the release of this reward will help this person come forward and talk to us again.
“The author has knowledge of the investigation and we’re really hopeful to speak to them so we can establish what they know.”
Investigators have previously released a description of a man they believe could help with inquiries, along with information about a truck seen in the area around the time of the assault.
The man was described as being Caucasian in appearance, with a medium build.
It is believed he was wearing khaki overalls and a dark, checked flannel shirt.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppers.com.au
