The identity of an unidentified man after 22 years has taken an unexpected turn… a handwritten note has now become a crucial clue
Fresh evidence has been uncovered in the search for the identity of a man who was found dead in bushland more than 20 years ago.
The man’s body was found at Echo Point, Katoomba in the Blue Mountains on June 4, 2004.
He remains unidentified, despite extensive investigations across the past 22 years.
An advanced DNA analysis has now given police a clearer depiction of the man’s appearance and background, with new digital images released as detectives renew their appeal for information.
The man’s body was found in bushland in 2004. Picture: NSW Police
He is believed to be of Latvian or Middle European descent. Picture: NSW Police
The man – often referred to as the ‘Echo Point man’ – is now believed to have been of Latvian or Middle European descent and more than 60 years old at the time of his death.
Police describe him as being caucasian in appearance, about 178cm tall and of a medium build, with light grey hair and frontal baldness.
Detectives also believe the man was suffering significant eyesight problems, releasing an image of a handwritten note as part of their investigations.
The man described eyesight concerns. Image: NSW Police
“To whom it may concern. Eyesight absolute s —t,” the note reads.
“Unable to work any longer. No cure I’m told!”
The man was wearing a blue button shirt with a red cardigan, cream jacket, blue corduroy pants, a black belt, and brown work boots when his body was found.
Detectives have developed detailed images of the man’s build, face, and the clothing he was last wearing, and hope this new information will enable them to finally identify the man.
Images include the clothing worn by the man at the time of his death. Picture: NSW Police
Investigators hope the new information will assist in identifying the ‘Echo Point man’. Picture: NSW Police.
Superintendent John Nelson said police were urging anyone with information about a man missing since the early 2000s, possibly with Latvian or Middle European heritage, to contact investigators.
“Despite extensive inquiries over many years, this man’s identity remains unknown,” he said.
“Police understand this may be a difficult subject, but identifying this man is about dignity, respect, and providing answers to family who may still be searching.”
Anyone with any information regarding this case is urged to contact investigators attached to Blue Mountains Police Area Command or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
SOURCE: NEWS.COM.AU
https://www.news.com.au/national/nsw-act/news/dna-breakthrough-22-years-after-echo-point-man-found-dead-in-bushland/news-story/e2f50513026b66fea4e8dd46d0845731
