Police Identify Luke Jon Telega as Man Found Dead in Bellerive Industrial Bin; Investigation Intensifies

BELLERIVE, TAS – Police have publicly identified the man whose body was discovered in an industrial-sized garbage bin behind a business on Percy Street, Bellerive, as Luke Jon Telega, aged 45. The discovery was made at approximately 9:00 a.m. on Monday, June 2, by a garbage contractor conducting routine collection.

Authorities have described the circumstances surrounding Mr. Telega’s death as suspicious, and a full-scale investigation is underway. With the permission of his family, police have released a photograph of Mr. Telega in the hopes that members of the public will come forward with information that may help fill in the critical missing hours leading up to his death.

Last Known Sighting and Timeline Gap

According to investigators, Luke Telega was last seen alive at around 10:00 p.m. on Saturday night, May 31. There remains a significant gap in the timeline between that sighting and the grim discovery of his body on Monday morning. Police are urgently working to piece together Mr. Telega’s movements during this period, particularly throughout Sunday, June 1, when his whereabouts remain unknown.

Active Investigation in Bellerive

Detectives have been canvassing the Bellerive area, going door to door and speaking with both residents and business owners. CCTV footage from surrounding streets and businesses is being reviewed, and forensic teams have continued to process the scene where Mr. Telega’s body was found.

In a statement, police said:

“We are appealing to anyone who may have seen Luke Jon Telega or interacted with him between Saturday night and Monday morning to please come forward. Even seemingly minor details could prove vital to our investigation.”

Investigators have not yet confirmed the cause of death, and a post-mortem examination is expected to be conducted in the coming days. No arrests have been made at this stage, and police are keeping an open mind about potential motives and circumstances.

Appeal to the Public

Authorities are urging anyone who may have seen Mr. Telega in the Bellerive or greater Hobart area—particularly on Sunday, June 1—to contact police. Individuals with dashcam footage, security footage, or firsthand knowledge of his activities are especially encouraged to come forward.