Ballarat, Australia – The investigation into the disappearance of Samantha Murphy, a mother of three, has been taken over by Victoria Police’s Missing Persons Unit, raising concerns among friends and family. Murphy, 51, went for a run in Woowookarung Regional Park on Sunday morning and has not been seen since. Detective Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt stated that investigators will now focus on Murphy’s movements and interactions with others in the days leading up to her disappearance. The investigation, known as Operation Primus, will also involve analyzing Murphy’s computers and devices for potential clues.
Superintendent Hatt revealed that efforts are being made to determine who may have been in the area where Murphy’s phone lost communication with mobile phone towers. He emphasized the need for information from the public to aid in tracking down her whereabouts. Despite ruling out any suspicious or sinister circumstances, police have growing concerns for Murphy’s welfare as the days pass without resolution.
The search for Murphy has entered its sixth day and specialized police teams are combing through the area for any leads or evidence. Inspector Bob Heaney acknowledged the challenges faced by investigators. Murphy’s daughter and husband shared emotional pleas for her safe return, while locals expressed worries about the possibility of her falling into an abandoned mine shaft.
The investigation remains ongoing, with police working diligently to gather information and prioritize search areas based on tips received from the public. The focus is on finding Samantha Murphy and determining the circumstances surrounding her disappearance.