Ground search for missing Dundas senior has ended but investigation continues, police say

Hamilton police say they've called off their ground search for John Edwards — a Dundas man who has been missing for more than two weeks.

Edwards, 62, was last seen on June 11 around 4 p.m. at an Esso gas station near Millgrove Side Road and Concession 5 West. Security footage shows him walking south from the gas station. He was wearing dark pants, a red and white T-shirt, and a white baseball cap.

Since then, police had set up a command post at Millgrove United Church. 

In a Friday night news release, police said there have been no confirmed sightings of Edwards beyond the June 11 surveillance footage, despite "exhaustive efforts" — including coordinated foot patrols, ground search and rescue, Public Order Unit involvement, drone deployment, helicopter support, canine, ATV, and mounted searches, as well as thorough follow-up on all public tips. 

"Difficult terrain, including dense brush, high grass, and bog-like areas, combined with John's unpatterned movements and the absence of any means to track him, have significantly impacted the ability to continue with a sustained search strategy," the news release said. 

With no digital footprint or tracking capabilities, investigators have been entirely reliant on public tips and video submissions from businesses and the community, police said, adding that the absence of a confirmed direction of travel and viable new leads has further limited efforts to effectively target search zones.

According to police, the decision to call off the search was not made lightly and follows consultation with search experts from the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and other agencies.

"While the command post will no longer remain active, Hamilton Police will continue to investigate all tips, review additional video evidence as it becomes available, and remain engaged with both the community and Mr. Edwards' family," reads the release.

Police continue to urge residents to check their properties, outbuildings, and nearby trail systems. Anyone with new information is encouraged to contact police, as the search for answers remains ongoing.