‘I am well aware that there is significant speculation about the resident of the property in question, and we are exploring all avenues at this early stage. I would encourage you all to ensure you are doing due diligence when it comes to any form of publication about this case. Regardless of the identity of the woman who was living there, we suspect we are dealing with a vulnerable person who may have mental health issues of her own. At this stage, we would simply like to talk to her and confirm that she is safe.’

The PR greyhound steps forward self-importantly. ‘The chief inspector will take no more than three questions, then that will be all for today.’

The pack surges forward, arms in the air like schoolchildren.

‘Yes, Melissa.’

Oli rolls her eyes. Bloody Melissa Warren.

‘There are reports that the resident of the house was Nicole Horrowitz and that she was living there with a little girl named Evie.’ She splays a taloned hand in the air, clearly annoyed she’s referencing a lead broken by Oli’s paper. ‘One can only assume Alex Riboni went there to confront her, or interact with her in some other way. Did you know the women were still in touch?’

‘One can assume lots of things, Melissa, but my department is only concerned with facts. No comment and next question.’

Oli smirks. She catches Rusty’s eye, and he smiles before directing his gaze at his feet. He knows how much she hates Melissa.

Hands shoot up in the air again.

‘Stacey.’

‘Are you saying, Chief Inspector, that you believe Ms Riboni set a bomb to go off in the house following her death?’ asks Rachael Brown from the ABC.

‘We’re still investigating, but it does seem a device was in the house and set to go off, yes.’

Oli looks at Rusty again, but he’s staring straight ahead.

‘Bill.’

Bill Ferguson from Channel Ten nods. ‘Chief Inspector, when did you become aware that Nicole Horrowitz is still alive, and have police been tracking her whereabouts?’

Bowman’s lips form a thin line. ‘That’s two questions, Bill. My team investigated the death of Evelyn Stanley ten years ago to the best of our ability. We made a conviction, and despite that ruling being overturned, I believe our original investigation was sound and accurate.’

‘With all due respect, that doesn’t answer—’

‘Ms Horrowitz wasn’t under investigation then, and she isn’t now,’ Bowman says firmly. ‘If she is located, we would welcome the chance to talk to her.’ He trains his intense stare on Bill Ferguson, who shuffles his feet slightly. ‘I appreciate that doesn’t answer either of your questions, but there you have it.’

Greyhound returns to the mic, looking flustered. ‘Thanks, everyone, that’s it. Please direct all inquiries to our media team. We’ll provide updates as necessary.’

A dissatisfied rumble breaks out as Bowman leaves the room.