Tearful dad’s appeal for son
Plea for help to find backpacker
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 yesterday when he faced a room packed with members of the media at the Tweed Heads Police Station.
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 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 crowd-funding effort.
Tweed Byron Police District Commander, Superintendent Dave Roptell, said officers were “baffled” by the sudden disappearance.
He confirmed homicide detectives had 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. Stoppers
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, 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 blond hair.
He was last seen dressed in a black hooded jumper, beige pants and black shoes.
Mr Hayez’s belongings, including his mobile phone, bank cards and passport, have not been used since May 31. Know more?
Phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.