NSW police establish Strike Force to investigate disappearance of Ruth Ridley in Murray River region

Police have established Strike Force Alysse to investigate the recent disappearance of Ruth Ridley in the Murray River border area with Victoria.

Mrs Ridley was reported missing in NSW on Wednesday 30 October 2019. Police hold grave fears for her safety and suspect she may be the victim of a domestic violence incident that has resulted in her death. Ruth is described as 58 years of age, Caucasian, about 175cm tall with a medium build, fair complexion and blonde hair.

Police believe Mrs Ridley travelled from Tumbarumba to Neils Bend Murray River Reserve or the Walwa area on Saturday 26 October 2019 in the company of her husband, Gary Ridley, in a dark blue Mitsubishi Pajero, towing a Jayco Sterling Caravan.

The Pajero was located near the Shelley – Walwa Road, Shelley in Victoria, a few days later with the body Gary Ridley inside. Victoria Police are investigating that death and are assisting NSW Police with their inquiries into Mrs Ridley’s disappearance.

Police are seeking information from anyone who may have been in the vicinity of Neil’s Bend Reserve or the Walwa area in Victoria on the Murray River between Saturday 26 and Monday 28 October 2019. Police would like to hear from anyone who may have seen Ruth or Gary Ridley camped in the area during that period.

Police are also keen to hear from anyone who may have sighted the dark blue Mitsubishi Pajero, with or without the caravan attached over the same time period of the 26 to 28 October 2019.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.

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