Man feared dead after disappearance

Photo / Martin Sykes

Police have launched a homicide investigation after finding evidence of violence and property belonging to a missing man in a search of two Hastings houses.

Johnny Charles Wright, 50, has not been seen since early June and his lack of contact with family and friends has been described as "out of character".

Detective Senior Sergeant Dave de Lange said the investigation into his disappearance was upgraded to a homicide after officers searched two houses in the suburb of Mayfair where he had lived.

An examination showed "some form of violence" may have happened there, he said. Property belonging to Mr Wright was also found.

"These factors certainly indicate Mr Wright hasn't moved on to another address or town and are of real concern. We are treating this investigation as a homicide as there is simply no other explanation for his disappearance"

Police are waiting for forensic results on samples taken from the houses to check if there was any connection to Mr Wright or his disappearance, Mr de Lange said.

Mr Wright is described as a Caucasian with collar-length fair hair.

He often wore a maroon Queensland State of Origin rugby jersey and appears to have had no access to income for almost two months.

Mr de Lange said 15 police were working on the homicide investigation.

He said they "urgently" needed information on Mr Wright's disappearance.

To give information, contact Hastings police on 06 873 0500 or the anonymous Crimestoppers line 0800 555 11.