Queensland Police are urgently searching for a 71-year-old First Nations man who vanished from Mackay weeks ago, with detectives declaring two separate crime scenes as part of their investigation.
Disappearance 'Out of Character' for Family Man
Wayne Pedro Morse was reported missing by his family on November 10, 2025, but had not been seen since mid to late October. Detective Superintendent Darren Shuttle stated the disappearance is deeply concerning and out of character for Morse, who is described as family-oriented and well-connected in the Mackay community.
"He generally has contact with his family every couple of weeks," Detective Superintendent Shuttle said on Monday. "He is family-oriented and has a large network of friends in the Mackay area. He hasn't been seen now since mid to late October. Police and his family are obviously worried for his welfare."
Two Properties Declared Crime Scenes
In a significant development, investigators declared crime scenes at two Mackay addresses on Thursday. One scene was at Morse's own home on Griffin Street, while the second was at a River Street address.
The declaration followed information that a person who had been staying at the Griffin Street residence later moved to the River Street property. "That prompted us to declare a crime scene there, which has since been released," Shuttle explained, noting that many people came and went from the Griffin Street house.
The two locations are approximately a 20-minute walk apart. Morse, who worked in the railway for many years, does not own a vehicle and is known to walk to destinations around Mackay.
Forensic Examination and Public Appeal
The Queensland Police Service (QPS) is conducting a forensic examination of Morse's Griffin Street home and is also reviewing items found in nearby bins. Police are treating the case as suspicious until more information comes to light.
"We are putting every resource we have to it. No stone is being left unturned," Detective Superintendent Shuttle affirmed. He added that there are currently no indications of a struggle and no evidence to suggest drugs are involved.
Detectives are now appealing to the public to help establish a detailed timeline of Morse's movements in the weeks before he disappeared. Morse is described as a First Nations man with a slim build, grey hair, and brown eyes.
Anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers or Mackay Police immediately.
