Couple ‘drowning in debt’ before wife vanished

Prior to Karen Ristevski's disappearance last month, she and her husband were reportedly encountering financial difficulties.

It is believed the Melbourne woman left her home at Avondale Heights close to three weeks ago, on June 29, to get some fresh air following an argument over financial issues with her husband, Borce Ristevski.

The 47-year-old missing woman and her husband are reportedly partners in a business Bella Bleu. Mrs Ristevski is listed as a sole shareholder and Mr Ristevski as a director of another business, The Australian reports.

The publication claims a caveat, thought to be brought on by unpaid rent, was lodged in February by a shopping centre owner over the missing woman's Avondale Heights property.

It reports the caveat prevents the property, thought to be worth up to $1.1million, from being transferred or sold.

Karen is pictured with her daughter Sarah and husband Borce. Photo: 7 News
Karen is pictured with her daughter Sarah and husband Borce. Photo: 7 News



The Australian also reports the problems with finances for the family are thought to date back more than ten years following the disintegration of a rag trade business.

Earlier reports state investigators had spoken with her 52-year-old husband as part of the ongoing investigation.

He was unable to provide any answers to where Karen went after their argument, and was released pending further inquiries.

Yahoo7 News is not suggesting Mr Ristevski is involved in the disappearance of his wife.

Karen Ristevski, 47, vanished over two weeks ago. Photo: 7 News
Karen Ristevski, 47, vanished over two weeks ago. Photo: 7 News

Those close to Mrs Ristevski have reportedly said her disappearance is out of character.

The missing woman didn’t show up to work at the Watergardens Town Centre, increasing concerns about her whereabouts.

Concerns grew after Karen Ristevski didn’t show up to work at her store, Bella Bleu boutique in Taylors Lakes. Photo: 7 News
Concerns grew after Karen Ristevski didn’t show up to work at her store, Bella Bleu boutique in Taylors Lakes. Photo: 7 News
TV personality, Samuel Johnson, said Karen was a community champion who is universally loved. Photo: 7 News
TV personality, Samuel Johnson, said Karen was a community champion who is universally loved. Photo: 7 News

Karen Ristevski has been described as having shoulder-length brown hair and a slim build and is 160cm tall.

She is believed to have had a Coach purse and handbag with her and was last seen wearing jeans and a black jacket.

Borce is seen with his daughter Sarah during a media press conference. Photo: 7 News
Borce is seen with his daughter Sarah during a media press conference. Photo: 7 News
Police released these items, which are similar to her belongings, in the hope that someone may have information on her current whereabouts. Photo: Victoria Police
Police released these items, which are similar to her belongings, in the hope that someone may have information on her current whereabouts. Photo: Victoria Police

The investigation into Mrs Ristevski's disappearance remains ongoing.

Anyone who sees Karen is urged to contact triple zero (000) or anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 immediately.