Search expands into Decoy Wood for missing 78-year-old woman
New CCTV footage shows Christine walking along a footpath near Nacton.
Suffolk Police have expanded their search for missing 78-year-old Christine Murton, issuing new CCTV footage as part of their investigation.
Christine, from Rushmere St Andrew, was last seen leaving her home on Wednesday, 12th November, mid-morning. CCTV has recently revealed her walking along a footpath on the edge of Nacton village heading towards Decoy Wood at approximately 2:45pm that day.
Search activity has widened to include Decoy Wood and Lady Wood, as well as nearby coastal and water areas. Police officers, Suffolk Lowland Search and Rescue (SulSAR), DK9 Search and Rescue charity, and the Coastguard have all been involved, using drones, specialist dogs, and the police helicopter.
Detective Superintendent Tom Pearse said: “Christine has been missing for one week now, and we remain extremely concerned for her welfare. She is vulnerable and could be confused.
“This new CCTV has been critical to our investigation, as it has helped us identify areas we believe Christine was familiar with according to her family.”
Officers are urging local residents to assist by checking sheds, gardens, outbuildings, and any CCTV that might show Christine. Dog walkers are asked to stay alert and report anything unusual in woodland or coastal areas.
Detective Superintendent Pearse advised caution to those considering independent searches due to risks posed by recent weather conditions: “The recent heavy rain has made some areas hazardous, and the drop in temperature increases the risk of exposure."
He added: “I would like to pass on my thanks for all the support we have received so far from members of the public, specialist groups, and the media in our search to find Christine.”
Leaflets with Christine’s photograph and known movements have been distributed to residents in Rushmere St Andrew and Nacton to raise awareness.
Investigators are also looking into the location of Christine’s car, a blue Toyota Yaris with registration AV14 JKF. Her family has indicated she was unsure of its location before her disappearance, and it may have been left in areas such as Kesgrave, Rushmere, Foxhall, Hadleigh, or Raydon.
Christine is described as white, of slim build, approximately 5ft 7ins tall, with short dark hair. She was wearing a purple jacket, blue trousers, glasses, and carrying a large shoulder bag.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Suffolk Police.