Husband of missing Townsville businesswoman arrested, car seized from couple’s home

Homicide detectives have arrested the husband of a prominent Townsville businesswoman in connection to her mysterious disappearance.

Julie Hutchinson, 48, was last seen at her home on Chelsea Drive in the Townsville suburb of Condon on March 7.

The mother of two, who is a senior executive for Queensland Nickel and well known in Townsville’s business community, was reported missing by her sister on Thursday.

Last night police declared her home a crime scene, later taking Ms Hutchinson’s husband, 47-year-old Michael Hutchinson, into custody.

Mr Hutchinson is also a well-known Queensland businessman and neighbours said the couple mostly kept to themselves.

No charges have yet been laid.

A car at the home has also been seized by police and is being searched by forensic investigators.

Bushland in the Herveys Range, about 20km west on Townsville, is a key focus of police investigation.

Detectives say they now do not expect to find Ms Hutchinson alive.

“As part of our investigation we’ve come past information that suggests that vehicle might at some stage have been at Herveys Range,” Detective Inspector David Nixon said.

“Information and evidence we identified suggests the missing person (is) now deceased.”

Insp Nixon said Ms Hutchinson’s family had been informed of the development.

“Anytime something like this occurs, it’s always shocking, it’s always going to be difficult for the family and friends,” he said.

“It’s just a very sad time.”

Police have released images of Ms Hutchinson’s silver Mazda 6 sedan with Queensland registration 622-HZE.

They searched the car today before towing it away and it is believed she may have driven it prior to her disappearance.

Anyone who has seen Ms Hutchinson or her car in the last month is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.