Father of Theo Hayez makes emotional appeal for help finding his son
The father of a Belgian teenager last seen in Byron Bay more than two weeks ago has broken down in tears as he explained the devastating impact his son’s ‘baffling’ disappearance has had on his family.
Crime and Court
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THE father of a Belgian backpacker who vanished after leaving a Byron Bay bar more than two weeks ago has made an emotional appeal for help.
Theo Hayez, 18, was last seen leaving Cheeky Monkey’s on Jonson Street at Byron Bay about 11pm on May 31
He never returned to Wake Up! hostel, where he had been staying.
The teenager’s father Laurent Hayez flew to Australia last week and spent the weekend searching in vain for his son.
He appealed for assistance from the public at Tweed Heads Police Station on Monday, facing a room packed with members of the media.
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Breaking down into tears, Mr Hayez feared his son could be in “grave danger” and he asked anyone with information to contact police, or to call Crime Stoppers anonymously.
He said he “promised Theo’s little brother” that he would “bring his brother home”.
“Please help me keep my promise to him,” Mr Hayez said.
Mr Hayez, supported by Theo’s cousin and godfather, extended his gratitude to the Northern Rivers community for their support.
He said he was able to fly to Australia thanks to a public crowdfunding effort.
Tweed Byron Police District Commander, Superintendent Dave Roptell, said officers were “baffled” by the sudden disappearance.
He confirmed homicide detectives have been involved in investigations, but it was not clear if suspicious circumstances were involved.
He said officers were trying to access the missing tourist’s WhatsApp account, which was used the night he disappeared.
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Last week, the mother of the missing 18-year-old, Vinciane Delforge, told French media her son’s disappearance was out of character.
NSW Police Force and the State Emergency Service, (SES) using police dogs and drones, have been assisted by members of the community in a widespread search of Byron and surrounds, across bushland, beaches and swamps.
Mr Hayez had been holidaying in Australia since November, accompanied by his cousin, who has been heavily involved in the search.
He is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 180cm to 190cm tall, with a thin build and blonde hair.
He was last seen dressed in a black hooded jumper, beige pants and black shoes.
Mr Hayez belongings, including his phone, bank cards and passport, have not been used since May 31.
Know more? Phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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