WA police’s homicide squad are calling for public assistance to locate Shawn Adam Newton, who may have altered his appearance and may be committing crimes to support himself while eluding police.
Mr Newton, 42, is wanted for questioning over the death of 35-year-old mother of three Rebecca Jane Gascoigne, whose body was located inside a car on the Mitchell Freeway on Saturday July 15.
Officers are investigating whether he was linked to an armed robbery that occurred at a fast food outlet on Marmion Avenue, Duncraig, shortly after 8pm on Sunday.
In that incident, the offender was wearing a black balaclava and a blue jacket with a white and red stripe on the arm.
He was carrying a red bag and threatened staff in the store with a firearm before demanding cash and fleeing in a southerly direction.
“We are also investigating a number of burglary offences that Mr Newton may be linked to during the past week,” homicide squad detective senior sergeant Dean Bailey said.
“It is common for people who are actively trying to elude police to commit crimes in an effort to support themselves.”
Det-Sen. Sgt Bailey said people assisting Mr Newton may be placing their personal welfare at risk, in addition to the prospect of facing criminal prosecution.
“We consider him to be extremely dangerous and he is wanted for questioning over serious matters, including Ms Gascoigne’s death and armed robbery offences,” he said.
Mr Newton is described as being fair skinned, about 186cm tall, with a medium build, very short dark hair and brown eyes.
He may be in possession of a firearm.
He may have grown facial hair and may be using wigs in an effort to disguise himself.
Anyone who sights Mr Newton is urged to not approach him, and instead to call WA Police on 131 444.
