POLICE IN WALES have confirmed that a burnt-out car found near a disused quarry last night belongs to missing Irish woman Catherine Gowing.
The 37-year-old Offaly native has not been seen since Friday night and detectives investigating her disappearance are increasingly worried that she has come to significant harm.
Detective Superintendent John Hanson told reporters this afternoon that all efforts to find Catherine are continuing.
“The Renault Clio was found in an isolated area of Pinfold Lane close to a disused quarry surrounded by woodland and near to a quarry pool. The vehicle is completely burned out.”
He appealed for anyone who was in the area at Alltami last weekend to come forward. The vehicle was discovered by a member of the public about two miles from Catherine’s home.
“I am also appealing to anyone who may have been anywhere in between this location and Catherine’s home address in Cae Isa, New Brighton anytime since Friday evening who may have seen the Renault Clio or any suspicious activity in this area, no matter how insignificant they this it is, to contact the police on 101,” continued Hanson.
A comprehensive search and further forensic examinations continue at the site where the vehicle was discovered. Detectives say the thorough process will “likely take some time”.
An underwater search team and specialist dogs have been deployed as part of the search and other advisors have been drawn from across the UK’s police forces.
Hanson said that although the search and examination of the Renault Clio and surrounding area remains a priority, it should be noted that it is not the only search or investigative line of enquiry being followed. “Other Specialist Police Search Team’s and crime scene investigators are searching and examining two other locations in north Wales,” he added.
“House to house enquiries continue, and we continue to view CCTV footage, examine mobile phones and other technical data sources. Detectives continue to interview members of the public who have already phoned in with information and we are extremely grateful for the publics response to our appeals. All of this information requires careful and thorough examination as we seek every opportunity which may help us to find Catherine.
“I still need the public’s assistance. Have you been in Alltami since Friday evening? Were you in Pinfold Lane? Were you walking your dog in the woodland or there with friends? Have you seen something – anything which will help us find Catherine? Anything that will ease the pain that her family and friends are going through right now. If you have any information please phone Police on 101”.
Meanwhile, a 46-year-old man remains in custody but police only have until this evening to charge or release him. They were granted a 36-hour extension for questioning yesterday by a local court. It is understood the suspect often visits the New Brighton area and is known to the missing woman.
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