Fresh DNA evidence has renewed an appeal for information regarding the identity of a man more than 22 years after his body was found.
Discovery at Echo Point
He was discovered near Echo Point in Katoomba, in NSW's Blue Mountains, about 11.30am on June 4, 2004. Despite ongoing investigations, he has never been identified and has been dubbed the “Echo Point Man”.
He is described as Caucasian, more than 60-years-old, about 178cm tall, medium build, with light grey hair and frontal baldness. At the time of his death, the man was wearing a blue button-up shirt, red cardigan, cream jacket, blue corduroy pants with a black belt and brown work boots.
Note reveals eyesight issues
Detectives believe he was suffering from significant eyesight issues due to a note found in his possession. “To whom it may concern. Eyesight absolute s***,” the note reads. “Floating cobwebs on increase! Unable to work and longer. No cure I'm told!”
The note also features what appears to be an illustration of the man's condition, with two eye-shaped ovals littered with scribbles.
DNA breakthrough
While the case has been cold for more than two decades, police on Wednesday announced a breakthrough after new DNA analysis. Detectives have now been advised the man is from Latvia, a northeast European country along the Baltic Sea. They now hope the latest information can finally close the case.
“Since receiving this latest information, we have focused our inquiries in this area but have been unable to identify the man,” Blue Mountains Police Area Command Commander, Superintendent John Nelson, said. “We are now appealing to anyone with information about a man missing since early 2000s, possibly with Latvian or Middle European heritage, to contact police.”
Appeal for dignity
“Police understand this may be a difficult subject, but identifying this man is about dignity, respect and providing answers to family who may still be searching,” Superintendent Nelson said. Anyone with information has been urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
