Samantha Fraser: Man charged with ex-wife’s murder allegedly ‘used secret mobile under fake name’

The ex-husband of Samantha Fraser, who was found dead at her Phillip Island home last month, allegedly used a mobile phone registered to a fake name that was tracked to the island on the day of her death.

The mother-of-three, 38, was found dead inside her Seagrove Way garage at Cowes on July 23 after failing to collect her children from school.

Yesterday, police swooped on 41-year-old Adrian Basham and charged him with one count of murder.

At the same time, authorities released CCTV footage of a man in a hooded top approaching Ms Fraser’s home on July 23, as well as a motorcyclist seen travelling on Phillip Island on the same day.

That same suspect is then seen running from the area around midday.

As part of their investigation police allege Mr Basham had bought and registered a mobile phone under another name, with data from that phone tracked to Phillip Island on July 23.

DNA evidence and the cause of a scratch found on Mr Basham’s nose are also forming a part of the police investigation.

Yesterday Mr Basham faced Bairnsdale Magistrates Court as Detective Inspector Tim Day told reporters police were "very confident" the man filmed was responsible for Ms Fraser's death, and confirmed they were investigating if it was Mr Basham.

The court heard Mr Basham had refused to undergo a forensic procedure, with detectives wanting a mouth swab to compare with DNA samples recovered from the crime scene.

Ms Fraser’s alleged murder has been described as a "crime that strikes the heart of our own humanity" and detectives are continuing to appeal for public assistance.

Ms Fraser, a highly regarded psychologist, has been described by friends and colleagues as a "beautiful woman".

"She was incredibly kind, nurturing and talented," friend Alice Bradley said.

"Sam was articulate and passionate about everything she did."

Authorities are particularly asking for anyone who has dashcam footage taken on July 23 in the area of Phillip Island, in the vicinity of Seagrove Way or between Seagrove Way and San Remo between 7am and 1pm.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.