Further appeal for information following suspicious 1987 disappearance of Derek Williams

Detectives from the Missing Persons Squad are today appealing for further information following the suspicious disappearance of Moorabbin man Derek Williams in 1987.

A $1M reward for information was announced by police earlier this year and since then, investigators have received new information and been liaising with law enforcement agencies interstate.

Police believe there are still people out there who have information about what happened to Derek and who was responsible.

They are keen to speak to anyone with information about Derek’s movements or interactions in the weeks leading up to his disappearance and who may have been the last to see him alive.

Derek, who was 46 at the time, was reported missing by his housemate.

He was last seen at his business, Williams Printing Services on Kilpa Road in Moorabbin, at approximately 4.30pm on Wednesday, 7 January 1987. Derek’s vehicle was located in its usual position outside the business.

There hasn’t been any activity since this date to suggest that Derek is still alive.

He was wearing a grey jacket, blue shirt and tie and pants at the time.

At the time of his disappearance he didn’t have a partner or children.

Investigators are of the belief that Derek has met with foul play and are seeking public assistance to help identify those involved.

A reward of up to $1M will be paid at the discretion of the Chief Commissioner of Police, for information leading to the apprehension and subsequent conviction of the person or persons responsible for the death of Derek Williams.

The Director of Public Prosecutions will consider, according to established guidelines, the granting of indemnification from prosecution to any person who provides information as to the identity of the principal offender or offenders in this matter.

Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Quotes attributable to Detective Inspector Dave Dunstan:

“Although it has been almost forty years since Derek disappeared this is very much an active investigation.

“There will absolutely be people who know what happened to Derek and who is responsible, and we are appealing for those people to come forward and speak to police.

“People’s circumstances can change over the years and someone who may not have wanted to provide information to police previously may now feel ready to do so.

“It is not too late to do the right thing. In fact, there are now one million reasons to do so. Any new information provided to police will be thoroughly investigated. Derek deserves justice.”

Maddy McDermott

Media Unit
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