Rodney Stevens
The body of a man police believe is a 65-year-old from Yamba who was reported missing last week was found two days later by emergency services in the Clarence River at Yamba.
Douglas Lucas was last heard from about 9pm on Monday, June 5, and police believed he had purchased a bus ticket that day with the intention of travelling to Brunswick Heads to see a friend the following day.
When Mr Lucas did not arrive at Brunswick Heads as expected and could not be contacted, the Coffs Clarence Police District was notified, and officers commenced inquiries into his whereabouts.
On Wednesday, June 7, police issued missing persons alert and a geo-targeted text message to Lower Clarence residents advising Mr Lucas was missing and appealing for any information into his whereabouts.
Serious concerns were held by police for Mr Lucas’ welfare, who was described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 170cm tall, of medium build, with brown hair and green eyes.
Following extensive enquiries by police, a multi-agency search involving Coffs Harbour Water Police, NSW Police Divers, and NSW Surf Rescue jet ski and drone resources was conducted of the Clarence River at Yamba.
At 8.20am on Friday, June 9, the body of a man who is yet to be identified, but which police believe to be Mr Lucas was located in the river.
Police will prepare a report on the incident for the information of the coroner.
Meanwhile, a 23-year-old man who was reported missing from Grafton on Monday has been found safe and well.
Elijah Walker was last seen at a home on Powell Street, Grafton, about 7.30pm on Sunday, June 4 and when he couldn’t be located the following day Coffs Clarence police were notified.
A missing persons alert was issued the following day and police stated they believed Mr Walker may have been in the vicinity of Waterview Heights.
A NSW Police spokesperson confirmed to the Independent 23-year-old Mr Walker was located safe and well at Grafton at 10am on Wednesday, June 7.
Anyone with any information that may assist police in finding out what happened to Mr Lucas is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au