Police and Search and Rescue teams are combing the woods near Crofton for a 79-year-old man who went missing in the Maple Mountain area last Sunday.
Anthony Morley, who goes by the name "Tony," left his home on Sept. 21, and an RCMP investigation has shown that he left the Duncan Wal-Mart at approximately 4:25 p.m., then parked his 2008 Acura near the Maple Mountain staging area off Osborne Bay Road. The vehicle was left locked and undamaged, so police believe he left it of his own accord and went for a walk.
Morley is described as Caucasian, with grey hair and balding, with a very slim build. He was last seen wearing a white shirt. Police say he is in the early stages of dementia and recently had heart surgery.
Otherwise he is healthy and active.
He is familiar with the Maple Mountain area and hikes there regularly.
On Wednesday and Thursday, Cowichan Search and Rescue was looking for Morley on foot and by air, while police were asking the public to keep an eye out for him.
"We are asking that the public nearby check their outbuildings and fence lines in case Mr. Morley has sought shelter there," North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Krista Hobday said.
Police have checked Island hospitals to no avail.
Anyone who has seen or thinks they've seen Tony Morley recently should contact the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP at 250-748-5522.