Richard's life
Personal testimony
Memories of Richard from family and friends are welcome. You can share a memory or photograph using the email button below.
1983 · aged 15
Richard Kelvin
A 15-year-old whose death in 1983 led to the only conviction among the five cases.
Remembrance
A space for Richard's family and community, filled only with what they choose to share.
Email adelaidefamilymurders@gmail.com. The button opens your email app. Add your memory, attach any photographs and send. We will review your contribution before publishing it.
Known movements
Official police statement
Crime Stoppers SA’s account, published on 9 June 2020, says Richard was abducted from a laneway off Ward Street, North Adelaide, around 6.15pm on 5 June 1983. He was 15. Witnesses heard raised voices, followed by a car with a loud exhaust leaving.
Discovery on 24 July 1983
Official police statement
The account records that Richard’s body was discovered near an airstrip at Kersbrook on 24 July 1983.
Investigation and court history
Official police statement
Crime Stoppers confirms that one man was convicted of Richard’s murder. Its 2020 appeal states that investigators believed more than one person participated. That belief about others is distinct from the established conviction.
Can you help?
Official police statement
The 2020 appeal lists a reward of up to $1 million. Contact Crime Stoppers for current conditions or to share information on 1800 333 000.
What remains unanswered
- What did the investigation of Richard's death reveal about the other four cases?
- What material from the investigation has been retained, and has it been re-examined?
- Which related records remain suppressed or restricted today?
Sources for this page
SA Police statement
More people suspected in the abduction and murder of Richard Kelvin
Crime Stoppers South Australia · 9 June 2020
Abduction, discovery, conviction and police belief that other people were involved; dated reward appeal.
Verified — primary source