Police are not ruling out foul play as a heartbroken Australian mum pleads for the safe return of her missing son.
Justin Males, who also goes by Justin Bernard, disappeared 11 days ago in Melton, Victoria.
“In my heart, in my gut, someone knows something,” his mother, Lisa Males, told 9 News.
“He might be 34 but he’s still my baby. I want my son home.”
Mr Males was dropped off home by his best friend, Amber Lindsay, and is understood to have then gone for a walk instead of going inside.
Security footage showed him walking towards Toolern Creek, from Barries Road in Melton, about 6.50pm on Tuesday, July 11 but it is not known why he was heading to the creek.
Police say an extensive search has been conducted of the creek and nearby Melton Botanic Garden and Darlingsford Lake areas over the past several days however they have been unable locate any sign of Mr Males.
They want to speak to a man they believe Mr Males went on a date with earlier that day after meeting on Grindr.
Ms Lindsay said Mr Males told her the date went well.
Mr Males is about 180cm tall with a medium build, short dark hair and has limited use of his right arm following a stroke.
He was last seen wearing a black long-sleeved KSCY-brand hooded top, red camouflage three-quarter-length pants and black runners.
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Anyone with information or anyone that may know of Mr Males’ whereabouts is urged to contact Melton Police Station on (03) 9747 7999.
His mother has pleaded with whoever knows the whereabouts of her son to send the family a message or even “dump him at hospital”.
“Just bring our boy home to us,” she said through tears.
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