Man held after body found at Perth home, homicide detectives investigate

Western Australia Police say a 29-year-old man is in custody after a relative requested a welfare check at a home in Orelia. He has not been charged, and detectives have not established when the deceased died.

Western Australia Police said a family member called on Thursday and asked officers to conduct a welfare check at a home on Nye Way in Orelia, south of Perth. Police, homicide detectives and forensic officers had been at the property since 2.20pm. Officers found the body of a 29-year-old man in the backyard with visible injuries.

Detective Inspector Jessica Securo said on Friday that the body appeared to have been at the property for several days. Investigators could not determine the time of death before forensic officers completed their examination. Securo called the incident recent but said its exact timeline and circumstances remained under investigation.

Another man, also 29 and the deceased’s brother, was taken into police custody. The Sydney Morning Herald reported that he is believed to be the deceased’s twin. He is receiving medical treatment in hospital and has not been charged. Police said there was no ongoing risk to the wider community.

Securo said the incident had deeply affected the family, loved ones and friends and asked that their privacy be respected as the investigation continued. Health and welfare support services were made available to police attending the scene and working on the investigation.

Securo said the men’s family was distressed. She did not describe the injuries suffered by the deceased. Detectives and forensic officers were expected to remain at the property for several days to examine the scene.