Police search for missing man in High Country
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Police are searching for an 85-year-old man, Jacobus, also known as John, missing from Harrietville, Victoria.
- He was last seen leaving the Harrietville Hotel late Sunday night and did not return home.
- Authorities and family are concerned due to his age and mobility issues; his silver Toyota Land Cruiser is also missing.
Authorities in Victoria, Australia, are actively searching for an 85-year-old man who has gone missing from the town of Harrietville. Jacobus, commonly known as John, was last seen leaving the Harrietville Hotel shortly after 10 p.m. on Sunday. He was expected to drive his silver 2007 Toyota LandCruiser, registration WBD-077, home along the Great Alpine Road, a short distance his wife typically walks. However, neither John nor his vehicle were at home when his wife arrived, prompting immediate concern. Police and family members are worried about John's welfare, as he does not typically travel far alone and has mobility issues, using a walking stick and walking hunched over. He is described as Caucasian, with a slim build, approximately 170 centimeters tall, and was last seen wearing a checked shirt, vest, and pants, possibly with a hat. The search is being conducted by local police, the Police Air Wing around Mount Hotham, and along the Great Alpine Road, with assistance from John's family and friends who are also scouring Harrietville and surrounding areas. The vehicle is distinctive, featuring a front nudge bar and two spotlights. Police urge anyone who has seen John or his LandCruiser to contact Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Originally published by ABC Australia. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.