Body found in search for father who went missing six days ago after his dog and ute were discovered abandoned
A body has been found during an extensive search for a missing father after his dog and car were discovered six days after his disappearance.
John ‘Tony’ Locker, 77, was last seen on Culey Ave in Cooma, southern NSW, on Monday afternoon.
NSW Police confirmed a body was found on farmland south of Cooma at around 6pm on Saturday.
Although the body has yet to be formally identified, it is believed to be that of Mr Locker.
Police confirmed that initial investigations indicate there are no suspicious circumstances and that a report will be prepared for the coroner.
Concerned relatives reported Mr Locker missing on Monday because they were concerned about his health given his dependence on medication.
During the massive search, black and white Border Collie dog Sophie van Locker was found by residents of Kiah Ave, Cooma at around 10.30pm on Friday.
John ‘Tony’ Locker, 77, has been missing in the Cooma region since Monday with his border collie Sophie, who was with him, found alone on Friday
Locker’s Hilux was found abandoned near farmland in the Cooma region on Saturday
Mr Locker’s Toyota business was also found during the search near farmland 10km south of Cooma at around 3pm on Saturday.
The discovery prompted a co-ordinated search by police, volunteers, SES and RFS are now focusing on this area and adjacent properties.
Monaro Police District Duty Officer, Acting Inspector Tyrone Stacey thanked the local community for their continued help and support during the search.
On Friday, Mr Locker’s family had issued a heartfelt plea for help in finding him, saying ‘every day that passes increases our concerns’.
“It is with great concern that we are contacting you and seeking your assistance in locating a cherished member of our family who has gone missing,” they wrote.
“We are appealing to anyone who may have seen or heard anything, no matter how small it may seem, to come forward and help us get Tony home safely.
“We would like to thank all the landowners who took the time to search their properties over the past week.
“Please help us get Dad home, because we’re afraid time is running out.”
On Thursday, NSW Police had asked residents in the Cooma area to check outbuildings, including garages, sheds and other structures, for Mr Locker.
A NSW Police spokesperson said they had investigated “numerous lines of inquiry”, including that he may have traveled to Victoria.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.