The family of 17-year-old Richard Tu, who has been missing for eight days, has made a poignant appeal for public assistance following the suspension of an extensive police search. He was last spotted disembarking a bus in Armadale, southeast of Perth, at 9.15pm on March 31.
Despite a recent ground search in the Mount Richon area, which encompassed a five-square kilometre zone, authorities found no evidence of Richard. His sister, Rachel, expressed her distress during a media appearance, urging anyone with information to come forward. “We’re really worried; he’s out there alone, and we just want him to come home,” she said, stressing that any detail, no matter how small, could help locate him.
Western Australia Police Inspector Steve Scott confirmed that Richard has not accessed his bank account or social media platforms during the time he has been missing. The teenager paid for his bus fare in cash and has been unaccounted for since leaving the 529 bus along Armadale Road approximately 15 minutes later.
Inspector Scott noted, “Unfortunately, there’s no trace of Richard at this location,” and confirmed that the physical search has now officially concluded. However, police are reviewing CCTV footage from the Public Transport Authority to determine whether he may have boarded another bus afterward.
Described as approximately 175cm tall with a slim build, Richard has short black hair and brown eyes. The last known attire consisted of black-framed glasses, a black puffer jacket, and Adidas sneakers. His family fears he may be hiding his identity with a face mask, as they expressed their concern for his well-being, wanting him to know they are there to support him. “Whatever it is, we can work through it together; you don’t have to do this alone,” Rachel added.
The police hold significant concerns for Richard’s safety and are urging anyone with relevant information to contact them immediately at 131 444.