Police have issued an e-fit of a man who went missing in London 38 years ago in a bid to solve the mystery surrounding his disappearance.
The Disappearance of Ian Bushell
Ian Bushell was believed to have been seen by a family friend in 2007 — nearly two decades after he went missing. The reported sighting took place in Upton Park, Newham, when Ian, who was 21 years old when he disappeared in 1988, would have been around 40. He answered to the name Adrian and claimed to be living in Plaistow. The sighting was not reported to police at the time.
Despite the alleged sighting, Ian’s family have not seen him since his disappearance.
Family Appeal
Now his sister Rosalind, his last surviving relative, has made a desperate appeal for her brother to make contact. “Ian, I really need to know if you are safe and well. It is the not knowing which is so difficult,” she said. “I love you and miss you desperately. Please get in touch. If anyone knows anything about my brother please respond to this appeal.”
Ian would be 60 years old today. Detectives from the Met’s Missing Persons Unit have created an e-fit artist’s impression showing how he may look now.
Background
Ian was reported missing by his father in 1988 and was living in the Abbey Wood area of southeast London. At the time of his disappearance, he was of medium build with short, black cropped hair and was 5ft 6ins tall.
Detective Constable Anthony Drew, of the Met’s Missing Persons Unit, said: “No missing persons case is ever truly closed when we have been unable to bring it to a definitive outcome. We remain committed to finding answers for Ian’s family, no matter how much time has passed. If anyone has seen or heard from Ian, or if Ian is reading this appeal, we would urge them to please contact us. Ian should know there are people concerned for his wellbeing who would be delighted to hear from him again.”
How to Help
Anyone with information about Ian’s whereabouts is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference 01/7432265/25. Information can also be reported to the Missing People charity on 116 000.
