The body of Richard Wills was found in a shallow grave at his rural property. (Supplied: Victoria Police)

In short:

Police have appealed for information about the death of Ouyen man Richard Wills.

Mr Wills’s body was found in a shallow grave on his rural property earlier this week.

He was last seen alive leaving his home at 8am on Sunday, April 5.

Police have issued a plea for information about the fatal shooting of Ouyen man Richard Wills, whose body was found in a shallow grave on Tuesday.

Mr Wills was last seen leaving his home in Hughs Street, Ouyen, at about 8am on Sunday, April 5.

Police have been told he went to work on his rural property on the Mallee Highway as normal.

After he failed to return home for lunch, family members searched the property for him. He was reported missing the following day.

His body was found in a shallow grave on the property at about 1:30pm on Tuesday.

Police said he had been fatally shot and buried.

A ute and a phone belonging to Mr Wills were found at the property, and officers from the Victoria Police forensic team searched the scene.

Detective Senior Sergeant Steve Trewavas from the Missing Persons Squad said Mr Wills’s death was a mystery.

“Sadly, Richard has clearly met with foul play. What is still unclear is exactly who was involved and why,” he said.

“We are very keen to speak to anyone who may have any knowledge of the circumstances which led to his death and who was responsible.

“We’re hoping that this appeal leads to someone coming forward and doing the right thing — it can be done anonymously — so that we can hold those responsible to account.”

Anyone who saw Mr Wills on April 5 or has information about his death has been urged to call CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000.