Missing man now believed murdered
Police are now treating the disappearance of father-of-two Bradley Hugh Hoddy more than seven years ago as a suspected homicide.
Major crime squad detectives have revealed new inquiries lead them to believe Mr Hoddy, who would now be 30, has been murdered.
His former partner reported him missing in 2008, concerned because he had not seen his adored eldest son, who is now nine, for so long.
Police believe he has never met his younger son, who is now six.
Acting Det-Sen. Sgt Chris Turner said police believed Mr Hoddy - who is also known as Bradley Schultz - had been missing since late 2006 because he had no contact with family since then and last used his bank accounts around August 2006.
His family were not initially concerned that they had not heard from him because of his transient lifestyle and the different circle of friends with whom he moved in, police said.
“He maintained contact with his family probably every six months, birthdays, Christmas – he would always contact grandparents,” Acting Det-Sen. Sgt Turner said.
Initial inquiries in 2008 did not uncover any evidence of foul play.
“But as time has gone on, further inquiries have been made and he is now suspected to have been murdered,” Acting Det-Sen. Sgt Turner said.
“The children are still young. “His immediate family - brothers, sisters, grandparents and parents - are all obviously concerned for his welfare and they’re very keen to find out what’s happened to their loved one.
“Somebody out there knows what has happened to Bradley, we’re appealing to the public and Bradley’s circle of friends to come forward and call Crime Stoppers and let us know what’s happened.”
Mr Hoddy was staying with friends when he disappeared, had no vehicle and was not working at the time. He was known to frequent the Perth CBD and northern suburbs.
Police refused to give more details about why they suspect he has been murdered.
Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
