GROUND SEARCH FOR MISSING BACKPACKER SUSPENDED
Police have called of a large scale search for missing backpacker Theo Hayez, with detectives now turning their attention to reviewing already collected information.
“Detectives are continuing to go through information provided to police, our trained Search Coordinators are reviewing all our search patterns,” Detective Inspector Matt Kehoe said
The 18-year-old was last seen leaving popular Byron Bay nightclub, Cheeky Monkey’s, late in the evening on May 31, with his phone detected near the Byron Bay Lighthouse that same evening.
CCTV footage shows the Belgian national shopping at a local bottle shop earlier in the night, with police hoping someone will come forward with information regarding the teenager’s whereabouts.
“Sadly our search efforts involving SES, Brunswick VRA, Police Dogs, Drones, Repellers, Specialist Police Searchers, Divers and of course our tireless community volunteers do not have any more answers for Theo’s family.,” said Det Insp Kehoe.
Community volunteers looking to continue the search are being reminded to be careful when traversing bushland.
“Please record where you are searching, don’t search alone, keep hydrated and wear protective clothing.”
“In my time spent with Laurent, Lisa and JP I am strengthened to continue our efforts to locate Theo,” Det Insp Kehoe said.
Hayez is described as being of Caucasian appearance, around 180cm tall, with a thin build and blue eyes.
He was last spotted wearing a greenish coloured hat, black hooded jumper, beige pants and black shoes.
Anyone with information is reminded to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or local police.