A Devonport woman who went missing almost 40 years ago may have been the victim of a crime, police believe.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Detectives reviewing an investigation into a long-term missing person Darlene Avis Geertsema, of Devonport, have identified a person of interest in her disappearance.
Detective Inspector Kim Steven said while the case was always treated as a missing person investigation, police now believe it is unlikely Ms Geertsema's disappearance was voluntary.
"As part of the investigation police are working to gain information on what may have become of Ms Geertsema’s red Holden Sunbird vehicle," Detective Inpsector Steven said.
"The last known information about the vehicle is that it was sold to an unknown person by a car yard in Launceston in 1984. It was de-registered in 1987."
The missing persons report made in October 1978 stated that Ms Geertsema was last seen leaving her family home in Devonport on Monday, October 23, 1978 about 10.30pm in her 1977 red Holden Sunbird registration AS4119.
Ms Geertsema was aged 31 and has not been seen or heard from since.
Her five-year-old son, eight-year-old daughter and then partner were in the flat before she disappeared.
Her vehicle was later located in a car park off Victoria Parade in the vicinity of the Devonport Oval on Wednesday, October 25, 1978, however, information received at the time confirmed the vehicle was in this position at 7.30am on the Tuesday morning, the day after her disappearance.
Police have recently re-interviewed a number of persons who were involved in Ms Geertsema’s life, including the person of interest.
“The disappearance of a friend or neighbour is a significant event and it’s likely that people who were in her life at the time would still have strong memories, even so many years afterwards," Detective Inspector Steven said.
“We’re particularly keen to speak to anyone who knew Ms Geertsema or her partner at that time but was never asked to provide a statement to police.
“The vehicle may also provide opportunities for forensic analysis and we are seeking information on what may have happened to it after it was sold from the Launceston car yard.”
Police would like to hear from anyone who has information relating to the disappearance of Ms Geertsema or about her vehicle and encourage the public to contact Devonport Criminal Investigation Branch on 6478 4036 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000.
