A man has been arrested as police continue to investigate the 24-year-old cold case death of a Canberra grandmother.
A 68-year-old man was taken into custody in the Melbourne suburb of Rowville this morning, and is set to be charged with murder, according to ACT police, after Irma Palasics died following a home invasion in November 1999.
Police said the 72-year-old woman and her husband Gregor were "bound" and "savagely beaten" before two men allegedly stole cash and jewellery from the couple's home.
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Irma did not survive her injuries and she died at the scene.
The 68-year-old man is expected to be extradited to the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) in the coming days after his extradition hearing this afternoon was adjourned.
A magistrate heard he had been taken to hospital after he complained of a heart condition.
ACT Police Detective Superintendent Scott Moller said police are still looking for another man over Irma's death and reminded the public that a $500,000 reward remains on offer for information.
"We urge this man to come forward as soon as possible," Moller said.
"We are also renewing our calls for anyone with any information about this case to come forward.
"The $500,000 reward offer remains active and information received from today can still be considered for this reward."
The Palasics family released a statement today as the investigation into Irma's death continues.
"After nearly 24 years of pain, questioning and uncertainty, we have never given up hope of finding out who was responsible for this heinous act," the family said.
