Police have launched a homicide investigation after the body of 49-year-old Crystal Beale was found in the Brisbane River. The Sunshine Coast woman was last seen in West End, having dinner with her family and ex-partner. Detectives are working to determine the circumstances surrounding her death.
A Night Out Ends in Tragedy
Crystal Beale, a mother-of-two, had been visiting family in Brisbane on 21 February. That evening, she dined at a restaurant in Sunnybank before being dropped off at Ryan Street in West End. Hours later, at approximately 5:40 a.m. the next morning, a member of the public discovered her body in the river at Yeronga.
Initially, police did not consider her death suspicious. There were no visible injuries. However, following a postmortem examination, authorities now believe her death to be suspicious. The police are treating Ms Beale’s death as a homicide.
Queensland Police have released CCTV footage showing Ms Beale on the night she was last seen. She was wearing a slim-fitting white dress and carrying a brown leather satchel. Investigators believe she was near Orleigh Park and Ryan Street in West End between 9:30 p.m. and 1:00 a.m.
Detective Acting Inspector Rod Watts confirmed multiple lines of inquiry were being pursued. The possibility of a random attack and the involvement of someone known to Ms Beale are also being considered. Police have spoken with her ex-partner, but no arrests have been made.
Family and Friends Remember Crystal Beale
Ms Beale’s children, a daughter and a 15-year-old son, are devastated by the loss of their mother. Her daughter, Charlie, described her as a talented artist and a writer. She was a deeply caring person who “constantly put herself out for others.”
Friends also shared their grief. They remembered Ms Beale as a kind-hearted woman with an infectious smile. One friend said that she was a beautiful lady, inside and out. Another recalled her generosity and warmth.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Concerns
The homicide investigation remains ongoing. Detectives are reviewing CCTV footage from West End and surrounding areas. Police are also analysing tidal patterns to determine how long Ms Beale’s body had been in the river.
Community concerns over violence against women have been reignited following Ms Beale’s death. She is the 14th Australian woman killed in 2025 and the 117th since 1 January 2024. Her death prompts renewed calls for action on gendered violence.
Authorities are urging anyone in the West End area during the specified timeframe or who may have seen Ms Beale to provide information. Contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Published 13-Mar-2025
