Murder Investigation Into Missing Dad
14 April 2011, 15:47
Detectives have launched a murder investigation following the disappearance of missing dad Gary Hampson.
Detectives have launched a murder investigation following the disappearance of missing dad Gary Hampson.
Detective Inspector (DI) Phil Mays of Sussex Police Major Crime Branch said: "Following extensive forensic examinations of the garage where Gary worked in Little Western Street, Brighton, blood was found at the premises and confirmed through DNA testing to be Gary's. Detectives are now treating this as a murder investigation.
"This is an extremely difficult time for Gary's family and friends. Specialist officers are continuing to offer support to his family both locally and in Liverpool, after Gary's mother and sister were traced following a media appeal in the Merseyside area."
Gary, 42, of Old Shoreham Road, Portslade, went missing three months ago and has failed to contact his 10-year-old daughter, despite her recent birthday. He was last seen when he dropped her home after picking her up from school in the Brighton area on Thursday 6 January.
DI Mays said: "Detectives have made thorough enquiries to piece together Gary's movements after he said goodbye to his daughter that Thursday afternoon. Gary's family and friends know him as a devoted father and a well-liked local character. It is extremely difficult for them not to know what has happened to Gary. I'd urge anyone who might have any information, however insignificant it might seem, to please get in touch. It might be the crucial information we need to find Gary."
Gary has connections to Liverpool and the St Helen's area in Merseyside. He frequently travelled to Liverpool by car, but police have yet to confirm whether he made the journey as planned on Friday 7 January.
Gary is described as white, 5'9" of stocky build with blue eyes, short dark brown hair and has a Liverpool accent.
A 48-year-old-man from Brighton who was arrested on suspicion of murder yhas been bailed until next month.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Sussex Police on 0845 60 70 999 quoting Operation Jubilee or anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Statement from the Mother of Gary Hampson's daughter
Kelly said: "Our daughter cherishes her dad and misses him every day. For a young girl who adores her father to hear the news her dad may not be coming home is heartbreaking.
"Please, for me, my daughter and Gary's family, tell police any information you may have that will help us find Gary. Someone must know something."