STRIKE Force Backhouse detectives have charged a third man following investigations into the fatal shooting of a woman in Stockton earlier this year.

Just after 8pm on Wednesday 9 June 2021, emergency services were called to a home on Queen Street, Stockton, following reports of a shooting.

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A 61-year-old woman answered her front door before being shot.

She died at the scene and was later identified as Stacey Klimovitch.

Officers from Newcastle City Police District established Strike Force Backhouse to investigate the circumstances surrounding Stacey’s murder.

So far during the investigation, two men aged 29 and 46 have been charged over their alleged involvement in the shooting murder and remain before the courts.

Following further inquiries, investigators attended a correctional facility in Silverwater on Wednesday 15 December 2021, and spoke with a 64-year-old inmate.

He was subsequently charged with murder and accessory after the fact to murder.

The man is due to appear before Newcastle Local Court on Monday 20 December 2021.

Klimovitch was a loving mother and local swimming coach involved in the support of local support in the Newcastle area for over 25 years, with Stacey teaching most of Stockton how to swim.

Stacey’s 31-year-old daughter and eight-week-old grandchild were in the home at the time of the shooting but did not see the shooter.

Strike Force Backhouse continues with investigations ongoing.

By Tara CAMPBELL