Why do people go missing?

Collection of cartoon images with speech bubbles about why people go missing

Recently we ran a social media series exploring the reasons people went missing and what they were feeling and experiencing at the time. Anyone, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity or educational background may become a missing person. The reasons for going missing are many and varied and can include mental illness, miscommunication, misadventure, domestic violence, and being a victim of crime.

 

 

The unique reasons featured in the series offer some perspective into the different reasons people go missing, but also serve as a reminder that we never know what someone is going through and to consider how we could support someone at risk of going missing.

 

If you know someone who is struggling or at risk of going missing, find information about how you can support them here: www.missingpersons.gov.au/support

 

Search @AFPNMPCC on Facebook, Instagram and X (Twitter) to see the full series.

 

Missing Person from NSW Maxwell Walter SMEAL

Maxwell SMEAL

Maxwell Walter Smeal was last seen by his family in late September 1990 at his residence in Burwood, NSW. He told his family he would be going to QLD in search of work and would...

Missing Person Michael Lorenz-Schrader

Michael LORENZ-SCHRADER

Michael Lorenz-Schrader was last seen in August/September 1996 at Gordonvale Queensland by his father.

Michael was commonly known as ‘Adrian’ by close friends and family.

He...

Passy Reyes

Passy Reyes was last seen in the early hours of July 18th 2001. Passy’s clothes were located at Mona vale beach and she has not been seen or contacted family or friends since....

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