Homicide squad detectives are re-appealing for information regarding the 2020 murder of Frank Smith after locating a weapon they believe could have been used to fatally shoot the 48-year-old in Wellington last year.
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Mr Smith was unable to revived after presenting to Wellington Hospital with a gunshot wound to the abdomen on Monday, April 27 last year.
Initial inquiries were conducted by officers from Orana Mid-Western Police District before detectives from the State Crime Command's Homicide Squad took carriage of the investigation under Strike Force Libani.
Following several public appeals for information, detectives recently located a gun near Wellington and released an image of the weapon early on Wednesday while launching renewed calls for information.
Homicide Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent Danny Doherty confirmed the weapon has been linked to the murder of Mr Smith by way of ballistic examination.
"Strike Force Libani detectives have seized significant physical and forensic evidence over the past 14 months since Frank's murder," he said.
"The firearm that was recently located has now been linked to the shooting of Frank and is currently undergoing further forensic and DNA testing.
Investigations under Strike Force Libani are continuing.
Anyone with information that may assist Strike Force Libani detectives is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.
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