Australian police are intensifying their search efforts for a 51-year-old woman who went missing while on a run in the Woowookarung Regional Park in the state of Victoria. Samantha Murphy was last seen on Sunday morning, and despite extensive searches by both authorities and community members, no trace of her or her belongings has been found. Concerns for her safety have grown due to the high temperatures experienced in the area recently, as well as the length of time she has been missing. Detective Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt emphasized that there is currently no indication of foul play in Murphy’s disappearance. However, her family and the community are increasingly worried about her well-being.
The search operation, now under the control of the Missing Persons Squad, has involved local police, search and rescue services, police dogs, and mounted officers. Detective Hatt confirmed that Murphy had her phone with her, and authorities have been working with communication technicians to gather any possible information. Murphy was last seen wearing black half-length leggings and a maroon singlet, and a photo of her taken by the family’s security cameras on Sunday has been circulated by Victoria Police.
Woowookarung Regional Park covers an expansive area of 641 hectares, roughly double the size of New York City’s Central Park. Its scenic trails attract numerous joggers and cyclists. However, its challenging terrain, including abandoned mines, waterways, and dense scrub, has complicated search efforts. Earlier this week, closed-circuit television footage was released showing Murphy running past a gate. However, hopes of a potential lead were dashed when a local resident identified herself as the person in the footage, rendering it irrelevant to the investigation.
As the search continues, the community has rallied around the Murphy family, with a Facebook group titled Find Samantha Murphy gaining almost 14,000 followers. Well-wishers and concerned individuals have been actively discussing the search operation and offering support. Murphy’s daughter, Jess, appealed emotionally for her mother’s safe return, expressing her longing to give her the biggest hug.
Meanwhile, Murphy’s husband, Michael, urged residents in the area to report any relevant findings, no matter how small. He emphasized that even the tiniest bit of information could provide some hope and bring a measure of peace to their anxious family.
In the midst of this distressing ordeal, the Murphy family and the community remain hopeful that Samantha will be found safe and sound. As the search efforts continue in the extensive bushland, authorities are doing everything possible to locate her and reunite her with her loved ones.
