Police investigate shocking murder

Jay Fielding

THE Fraser Coast community is struggling to come to terms with the senseless and brutal murder of Toogoom Uber driver Scotty Cabrie.

Mr Cabrie’s body was found near the boat ramp on Powerhouse Road at Howard on Sunday, February 12.

Within hours, investigations led police to execute a search warrant at a Pacific Haven address, where a 17-yearold was taken into custody later.

He has been charged with one count each of murder, arson, armed robbery, deprivation of liberty and unlawful use of a motor vehicle.

Later the same day, police attended a Hervey Bay address where they took an 18-year-old Sunshine Acres man into custody.

He was charged with one count each of murder, arson, armed robbery, deprivation of liberty and unlawful use of a motor vehicle.

Tye Wayne Porter, 18, faced Hervey Bay Magistrates court on Monday, February 13, and was refused bail. The case was adjourned until April.

The 17-year-old, who by law cannot be named due to his age, appeared in Hervey Bay Children’s Court on the same day.

Mr Cabrie was last seen leaving a Toogoom residence about 6pm on

Monday, February 6.

Police say that in the early hours of Tuesday, February 7, he picked up a party of three people through the Uber app.

The 47-year-old’s vehicle was found burnt out near Wieland Road in Pacific Haven the same day.

He wasn’t reported missing until Friday, February 10, four days after he was last seen.

Police subsequently launched a search operation in the area and surrounds, with officers, drone technology, water police and SES volunteers involved, ultimately finding his body.

Detective Acting Superintendent Darrin Shadlow said two of the three passengers Mr Cabrie picked up on February 7 were the teenagers who had been charged with his murder.

“Police will allege that a robbery was attempted of that male Uber driver which unfortunately has escalated,” Det Act Supt Shadlow said.

“It’s an absolutely tragic circumstance where this gentleman goes to work as an Uber driver and doesn’t get to go home,” he said.

Police do not suspect the third passenger was involved in the murder.

As well as being an Uber driver, Mr Cabrie had worked for Hit 101.9 Fraser Coast radio station, where staff have been distraught.

“We’re deeply saddened

An Uber spokesperson said Mr Cabrie’s murder was a “tragic and shocking incident”.

“Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with Mr Cabrie’s loved ones during this difficult time,” the spokesperson said.

“Our law enforcement engagement team is working with the Queensland police to assist in their investigation, and we are currently reaching out to Mr Cabrie’s next of kin to offer our support.”