Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
The case of an Alexandra man reported missing in February 2018 is to be reported to the Coroner.
Christopher Bates, then aged 22, was last seen leaving the family home on Sunday 11 February, 2018.
Extensive searches of the wider Alexandra area, including the Manuherikia and Clutha Rivers, and as far as the Roxburgh Dam, continued for many weeks after Christopher was reported missing, before being scaled back.
Detective Sergeant Derek Shaw, from Alexandra, wants to sincerely thank searchers and the local community for all their efforts.
“We want to extend our gratitude to all who were involved in the search for Christopher, both formally and informally, some of whom were locals and some who came from across the South Island to help.”
Information received from the public was still being followed up as recently as March this year, however unfortunately this did not result in further leads about Christopher’s whereabouts.
Taking into account information and inquiries so far, Police and Christopher’s family have made the decision to report the matter to the Coroner.
“This is not a step we take lightly but we believe it is now time for the Coroner to consider the matter, and, we hope, help bring Christopher’s family some closure,” Detective Sergeant Shaw says.
As with any missing person case, Police always welcome any further information which may assist.
While a number of leads have been investigated so far, if there is anyone with substantial information which may help Police locate Christopher, please contact 105 and quote file number 180215/9929.
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre
