Wife breaks down after kind-hearted husband killed in 'vicious' shooting in rural Victoria
The wife of a Victorian man shot dead in a "vicious" attack is struggling to come to terms with who would want her husband dead.
Donna Wills last saw her husband Richard Wills, 65, when he left their home on Hughs Street in Ouyen at about 8am on Easter Sunday, as part of his usual routine.
Police were told that he was leaving for work on his rural property on the Mallee Highway.
AS IT HAPPENED: US Vice President arrives in Pakistan for crucial talks
Donna Wills last saw her husband of 32-years Richard Wills, 65, when he left their home on Hughs Street in Ouyen at about 8am on Easter Sunday, as part of his usual routine. Nine
"He just kissed me goodbye, and I imagined I would see him lunchtime," Donna said.
Suspicions arose, and his family members began searching the property after he did not return home for lunch.
His wife reported him missing the following day, after he still had not returned, having initially believed he may have been with a friend.
Police began searching the property, and Wills' body was found at about 1.30pm on April 7.
He had been fatally shot, dragged behind a vehicle, and then buried in a shallow grave.
READ MORE: Two men stabbed in Melbourne home invasion
Donna broke down when describing her husband of 32 years.
"Five kids, lots of grandkids that are gonna miss him," she said.
"If he needed a tyre, he'd help them. If he needed fuel, he'd help them. He was one to help anyone. Kind-hearted, give you anything."
Police were shocked by the brutality of the shooting.
READ MORE: Kettle recalled over glaring design fault
Steve Trewavas, left, from Victoria Police said the killing was vicious. Nine
"This is a vicious killing," Detective Senior Sergeant Steve Trewavas from the missing persons squad said.
"What is still unclear is exactly who was involved, and why," he added, though police believe he was murdered by someone he knew.
"We're hoping that this appeal leads to someone coming forward and doing the right thing, it can be done anonymously, so that we can hold those responsible to account."
Police are urging anyone with information to come forward.
NEVER MISS A STORY: Get your breaking news and exclusive stories first by following us across all platforms.
- Download the 9NEWS App here via Apple and Google Play
- Make 9News your preferred source on Google by ticking this box here
- Sign up to our breaking newsletter here
Share a tip-off, video or photo with us
Most viewed in VIC
‘Unimaginable loss’: Two children killed in horror crash on the way home from school
‘Uncomfortable to say aloud’: Melbourne council votes against changing controversial street name
‘An additional mortgage’: Sinking Melbourne apartment complex could see Sue and her husband pay $374,000 special levy
Victorian One Nation leader admits to past drug use, ‘low-level’ drink-driving
