5 days ago
Mystery deepens as car found abandoned in search for Sunbury man, 23
Police are urging for public help after a young man has vanished without a trace, with his car abandoned and no sign of contact in northwest Victoria.
Joshua Bishop, 23, was last seen in Lalor Crescent at 9.30pm on 27 May by a housemate, and was subsequently reported missing by his mother on 29 May.
His phone and bank accounts remain inactive, and he has not made contact with his family or friends in the past 10 days.
Mr Bishop's mobile phone was tracked by detectives to a park in the Broadmeadows are on 27 May.
However, after a significant search by police with the aid of a dog squad and drones, on Wednesday, they were unable to locate Joshua.
His car — a white Toyota Corolla — had been located by investigators in Ridley Street, Albion on Wednesday.
Mr Bishop's associates have told police that they believe his car was stolen from him, however, no formal theft report was filed.
His loved ones are concerned for his welfare and say his disappearance is completely out of character.
Police have not been able to rule out any suspicions based on the circumstances around his disappearance.
Although Mr Bishop has not been reported missing before and is not known to the police, they are currently investigating if he has been involved in criminal activity.
Acting Detective Sergeant Matthew Wilson-Hawe said the police have conducted extensive inquiries and searches to find Joshua in the past 10 days.
'We were able to track his phone to a park in Broadmeadows, however despite an extensive search of the area we were unable to locate any trace of Joshua,' he said
'At this stage we simply don't know what has happened to him and have increasing concerns for his welfare.'
Sergeant Wilson-Hawe said Mr Bishop's disappearance on all accounts is incredibly out of character.
'The more time passes without us hearing Joshua or getting any information about his whereabouts, the more we believe his disappearance is likely to be suspicious,' he said.
Mr Bishop has been described as Caucasian in appearance, with an average build, short hair and blue eyes
The 23-year-old was last seen wearing a black singlet and track pants.
Police are urging for anyone who has seen Mr Bishop since 27 May or who has information about his whereabouts to come forward.
They are also appealing for Mr Bishop to make contact with authorities himself, should he become aware of the public appeal.
