A MAN found dead on a blood-stained footbridge in Cairns has been identified as an itinerant fruit picker from Papua New Guinea who leaves behind a 10-year-old son. 

The body of Niko Wowo, who went by several other names including James Anis, was found on a footbridge near the intersection of Mulgrave Rd and Brown St about 1.40am on Tuesday.

He had suffered severe head injuries.

Police yesterday released Mr Wowo’s identity in a bid to find crucial information and fill in the 15-hour gap from when the suspected murder victim left his Woree home about 10.30am on Monday and when his body was found.

Pictures: Crime scene at Westcourt

Mr Wowo was last seen wearing jeans and a white and dark-coloured striped shirt.

Detectives broke the news to the man’s family, who live in Cairns and Papua New Guinea, late yesterday.

Far Northern regional crime co-ordinator Det Insp John Hartwell said police had been given a number of birth dates for the victim and he was believed to be aged between 42 and 51.

"We haven’t located a weapon and we are still uncertain about what was used to cause those injuries to him," Insp Hartwell said.

"He is not in any current relationship but there may have been a male present, but at this stage we are uncertain.

"It’s important that as part of our investigations we know his whereabouts and who he may have been associated with at that time."

An autopsy found Mr Wowo’s death was caused by his head injuries.

Officers from Cairns CIB and forensics units were joined yesterday by the state homicide investigation group to piece together Mr Wowo’s last movements.

Forensic investigators were at the crime scene, which nearby businesses described as a "hotspot for drunks", for more than eight hours after the discovery of Mr Wowo’s body on Tuesday.

Police are "anxiously" seeking a woman who was seen having a "loud and aggressive" argument with Mr Wowo on the footbridge more than 30 minutes before his body was found.

She is described as being of indigenous appearance, obese, with untidy hair that was tied back in a bun. She was wearing a white singlet top.

Anyone with information which could assist police with their investigations should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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