Rowena Walker, 39, has not been seen since August 14 last year, when she was captured on CCTV on Bassett St in Christchurch.
In a statement this morning police said inquiries had led them to believe that Walker was the victim of foul play soon after that sighting, "and is no longer alive”.
They also revealed that her partner has refused to speak with police, and they have urged him to “do the right thing” and tell them what he knows.
“Rowena’s partner at the time has so far declined to assist police with our inquiries,” Detective Senior Sergeant Jo Carolan said.
“No person can be compelled to speak with police under any circumstances, and it is that person’s right to maintain his silence.
“However, as the last person known to have seen Rowena alive, his assistance is crucial to the investigation, and it is disappointing and frustrating that he is unwilling to assist us.
“I would strongly urge him to reconsider and do the right thing by Rowena and her family.”
Det Snr Sgt Carolan said no digital footprint and no verified sightings of Walker had been made since she was last seen.
“This absence of contact is deeply concerning for investigators and her family,” she said.
“Today is Rowena’s 40th birthday. What should be a time of celebration for her whanau is instead one of sadness and desperation.”
In April, police searched for Walker in the Christchurch red zone.
A further search was planned in the coming weeks.
Det Snr Sgt Carolan said anyone with information about Walker should contact police urgently.
“Report any information they think may be relevant, no matter how big or small,” she said.
“We are grateful for the information received so far, and we continue to ask the community to help us bring answers to Rowena’s family.”
- Police 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update report”, or by calling 105, reference number 251022/9026, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
- Allied Media
