IT appeared to be a normal day for Christopher Daunt on March 29.
The 27-year-old builder from Gateshead in the NSW Hunter region was halfway
through installing a kitchen at a Lake Macquarie home.
He was respected for his work and his family and friends had nothing but
affection for ‘Doonie’.
Then, inexplicably, Mr Daunt vanished without a trace.
It has been five months since the self-employed builder disappeared and his
family have not heard from him.His bank accounts have not been touched. His
phone remains unused.
Mr Daunt was last seen in the North Lambton area before failing to return
home.
Weeks after disappearing his ute was found in Brooks St, Wallsend. There is
no reason his family can think of as to why the vehicle was left there.
All of the mystery surrounding Mr Daunt’s disappearance yesterday prompted
police to form Strike Force Retractor.
Detectives are continuing to investigate all avenues but foul play continues
to emerge as the main line of inquiry.
“Serious concerns are held for his welfare as his disappearance is out of
character,” a NSW Police spokesman said.
“Strike force detectives have conducted extensive inquiries and are appealing
for public assistance in an attempt to locate him.”
In the meantime, Mr Daunt’s family continues to hope.
The Help
us find Chris Daunt Facebook page has
almost 2500 followers, with posts urging people to continue the search.
The page also gives an insight into the family’s heartbreak as they search
for answers.
July 28 was his mother’s birthday. On July 29 came this: “We really hoped
that Chris would have contacted his mum yesterday for her birthday, but
unfortunately no contact,” the post read.
“Where ever he may be, he is always in our thoughts and prayers, and we
cherish all the special times we had with him over the years.”
Mr Daunt is described as being caucasian, about 180 centimetres tall, of thin
build, brown hair and green eyes.
Anyone who may have seen Mr Daunt or believes they know his whereabouts is
urged to contact police.