Police call off Coober Pedy search

Relatives of missing teenager Karen Williams said they are devastated police have called off a search for her remains in Coober Pedy.

After a week of digging up mine shafts, police said they are disappointed they have not yet solves the 23-year-old murder mystery.

Police have been in the town since last Tuesday searching for the remains.

Detectives were confident they would crack the case within days.

“Definitely, we’re disappointed with the result of this search, but we’re certainly not defeated,” Detective Superintendent Des Bray said.

Karen’s loved ones are shattered.

“We was really hoping and its devastating news that it’s going to be closed off today,” Joanne Dingaman said.

Relative Andrew Dingaman said: “Well I suppose they tried their best, but it is pretty sad that they couldn’t find anything for the people, community and town, so it’s probably a sad day for everybody.”

The 16-year-old went missing after a night out in August 1990.

Detectives said the search has not been a waste of time because it eliminates certain possibilities and moves the investigation forward.

“Anybody who has assisted offenders or concealed information, those people do have something to worry about,” Det Supt Bray said.

They are hoping more public help will give Karen’s family the closure they need.