NSW Police is renewing an appeal for information as the search continues for a 77-year-old man missing in the state’s south, after his dog and vehicle were located.
Police say John Locker (pictured) – also known as Tony – was last seen on Culey Avenue in Cooma, about 1pm on Monday April 29th.
Family reported Mr Locker missing to Monaro Police District that evening.
“Officers attached to Monaro Police District, with assistance from PolAir, the State Emergency Service (SES), Rural Fire Services (RFS), NSW Marine Rescue, and ACT Police have been involved in land and water searches, but Mr Locker has not been located,” NSW Police said in a statement today.
“About 10.30pm last night, police were alerted to a dog being located by residents in Kiah Avenue, Cooma. Council rangers attended and confirmed it to be John’s dog, ‘Sophie’.”
The search involving local police and volunteers, SES and RFS resumed about 7am this morning.
Mr Locker’s Toyota utility was located at 3pm this afternoon, near farmland 10km south of Cooma. A coordinated search is now focusing on this area and neighbouring properties, Police said.
Monaro Police District Duty Officer, Acting Inspector Tyrone Stacey thanked the local community for assisting with information and supporting police and Mr Locker’s family in the search.
“We continue to hold concerns for John’s welfare and urge residents to check their properties and outbuildings for any sign of John,” A/Insp Stacey said.
Mr Locker is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 180cm-190cm tall, about 80kg-90kg, of medium build, with short white and grey hair, and brown eyes.
He is known to frequent the following areas, Carlaminda, Buckenderra, Berridale, Cooma, Numerella, Bobundra, Jindabyne, Adaminaby, and Old Adaminaby.
Anyone with information into John’s whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
