An official search has resumed for missing Gomeroi man Gordon Copeland after hundreds marched through the streets of the New South Wales town of Moree.
Yesterday, about 250 people including Mr Copeland’s family and pregnant partner demanded answers from police about what happened to Mr Copleand.
His family say that police chased him into the Gwydir River in the early hours of Saturday, July 10, but police have denied that it was an official 'pursuit'. If Mr Copeland is not found alive, an official pursuit would be declared a death in custody.
Speaking to NITV News at the rally, Mr Copeland’s Aunt Lesley Fernando said the family would not stop searching until they found him.
"Every day it becomes more and more difficult for us to go out and search with limited resources," said Ms Fernando.
“We’ve got a wider community here supporting us.
“Some of them have taken the time off work with no pay to come out and assist where they could."
Moree police said they last saw Mr Copeland running into the Gwydir River after sighting him near a bogged car near Yarraman Bridge on the Carnarvon Highway.
Family members of Mr Copeland address the media during the rally in Moree, Wednesday, 28 July. Source: NITV News.
They concluded a coordinated search on Thursday 15 July 2021, but family and community members have continued to keep looking for Mr Copeland themselves along the river banks.
Following yesterday's turnout, New South Wales Police announced they would continue a search of the area where Mr Copeland was last seen.
“New England Police have committed to continue searches of that area, utilising local staff, the Dog Unit, and both small boat and drone trained officers to search the waterways,” read the statement.
“These searches will continue with the assistance of specialist resources.
“Despite extensive searches of the area, Gordon has not been located and detectives continue to conduct inquiries into Gordon’s whereabouts."
Mr Copeland was last seen wearing a grey ‘Gant’ hooded jumper, a brown ‘Louis Vuitton’ cap, and black ‘Adidas’ track pants. He was carrying a black ‘Lacoste’ bag at the time.
Protesters walking the streets of Moree during Wednesday's march for missing Gomeroi man, Gordon Copeland. Source: NITV News.
