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Arrest warrant issued over Hayley Dodd's murder

An arrest warrant has been issued for a 59-year-old man over the 1999 abduction and murder of Hayley Dodd.

Police will allege that Francis John Wark abducted and murdered Hayley and disposed of her body in July 1999.

The 17-year-old was last seen hitchhiking on North West Road in Badgingarra.

Wark is currently serving 12 years jail in Queensland for the rape of a female hitchhiker whom he held captive.

The warrant follows a review and investigation conducted by the Special Crime Squad.

Francis John Wark
Francis John Wark

Francis John Wark

"This investigation was referred to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for its consideration in February, and advice was received in support of criminal court proceedings," WA Police said in a statement

"Preparations will commence with a view to prosecute the man in a Western Australian court."

Margaret Dodd told Seven News last night that her nerves were completely on edge but she does view Wark's arrest as a positive step forward.

State Crime Commander Pryce Scanlan talks about the arrest warrant for the murder of Hayley Dodd. Picture: Michael O'Brien/The West Australian
State Crime Commander Pryce Scanlan talks about the arrest warrant for the murder of Hayley Dodd. Picture: Michael O'Brien/The West Australian

State Crime Commander Pryce Scanlan talks about the arrest warrant for the murder of Hayley Dodd. Picture: Michael O'Brien/The West Australian

Detectives told the Dodd family about the 59-year-old's arrest only a few hours before the information was made public.

Ms Dodd said that after 16 years she was now steeling herself for the next part of this journey and ultimately hopes it can help them find Hayley.

Ms Dodd's son Martin posted online that there were "hard and trying times ahead but I pray we can get some answers from this and Hayley can rest".

Hayley's disappearance is one of WA’s most baffling missing person cases.




Police in Badgingarra last year. Picture: Simon Santi/The West Australian
Police in Badgingarra last year. Picture: Simon Santi/The West Australian

Police in Badgingarra last year. Picture: Simon Santi/The West Australian

Police searched a Badgingarra property once owned by Wark in late 2013, clearing concrete slabs, branches and limestone blocks from around the house, while Dandaragan shire workers used machinery to collect debris.

The property became the focus of the investigation into the suspected homicide, codenamed Operation Bluegum.

Officers returned last year to search bush near the town and set up police facility at the local community centre.

Police are still seeking Hayley’s remains and urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.