Georgia Tacey
Police are appealing for public assistance to find missing Sunbury man Joshua Bishop.
The 23-year-old was last seen in Lalor Crescent, Sunbury, about 9.30pm on Tuesday, May 27 by his housemate.
He was then reported missing by his mother on May 29.
Police and family are concerned for Joshua’s welfare and as his disappearance is believed to be completely out of character.
Police said his phone and bank accounts have not been accessed, and he has not been in contact with family or friends over the past 10 days.
Detectives have been able to track his phone to the Broadmeadows Valley Park at 11.30pm May 27.
Police, including the Dog Squad and drones, conducted a significant search of the park on Wednesday, June 4, however weren’t able to locate a trace of Joshua.
Investigators located his car, a white Toyota Corolla in Ridley Street, Albion, on June 4.
Associates of Joshua’s have told police they believe the vehicle had been stolen from him, however this was not reported to police.
At this time, the circumstances of Joshua’s disappearance are unclear and police have not been able to rule out that it may be suspicious.
Joshua has never been reported missing before and is not known to police, however detectives are investigating whether he has been involved in criminal activity.
Police have released an image of Joshua in the hope someone can provide information on his disappearance or current whereabouts.
He is described as being Caucasian with an average build, short blonde hair and blue eyes.
He was last seen wearing a black singlet and tracksuit pants.
Police are keen to speak to anyone with information, and are also appealing for Joshua himself to make contact with police in the event he becomes aware of the public appeal.
Detectives from the Missing Persons Squad are assisting Hume Crime Investigation Unit (CIU) detectives with the search.
Hume CIU Acting Detective Sergeant Matthew Wilson-Hawe said police have made extensive inquiries and conducted a number of searches over the past 10 days.
“At this stage we simply don’t know what has happened to him and have increasing concerns for his welfare,” he said.
“From all accounts, his disappearance is incredibly out of character. The more time passes without us hearing Joshua or getting any information about his whereabouts, the more we believe his disappearance is likely to be suspicious.
“If there is anyone out there with information about Joshua, whether they have heard from him in that time since he was last seen or they have information about his current whereabouts, then we are keen to speak to them.”
Anyone who sights Joshua or has information on his whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at crimestoppersvic.com.au
