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Both Clay and Russell died while camping in Wonnangatta in March 2020. Lynn, a former Jetstar pilot, was today found guilty of Clay’s murder, but not Hill.
“Thank you to the jury for their guilty verdict in the murder of Carol Clay. It was an extremely difficult task given that the defendants destroyed so much evidence,” the families said in a joint statement.
“The not guilty verdict in relation to the murder of Russell Hill is devastating. There wasn’t enough evidence to be sure how he died.”
The statement also said they know the prosecutor has a “tremendous burden of proof” in the case because there are no witnesses and evidence has been destroyed.
“The accused was the only person who saw and experienced what happened. He was also the only person who came out alive.”
The families also thanked Crown prosecutors, Victoria Police and “all the wonderful volunteers who spent weeks searching for our loved ones” when they went missing.
“Finally, the families of Carol Clay and Russell Hill would like to thank all of our friends and family who have supported us during this harrowing experience over the past four years.
“We are heartbroken by the loss of our loved ones. It will take time to digest the convictions, put this behind us and get on with treatment and move on with our lives. Right now, we ask that you respect our privacy while we do this,” the statement concluded.
A statement was also issued on behalf of Assistant Commissioner Martin O’Brien of Crime Command acknowledging the jury’s verdict.
“Our thoughts are with the Hill and Clay families at this time and we recognize how difficult the past four years have been for them. Their courage and endurance in the face of their grief, amidst the overwhelming public attention, was nothing short of extraordinary. We will continue to support them in any way possible following this decision.
“We would also like to acknowledge the determination and persistence of the missing persons team detectives throughout this exhaustive and complex investigation, as well as the significant support received from a number of specialist areas and local police across Victoria Police.”
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