MISSING FISHERMAN, 39 — SEARCH TEAMS RACE TO FIND PATRICK EVANS AFTER EMPTY BOAT IS FOUND CIRCLING ON THE MURRAY RIVER

A routine fishing trip has turned into a desperate search, as family members wait for answers and emergency crews work to establish what happened.

A major search operation is underway in Australia for 39-year-old Patrick Evans, who disappeared after reportedly heading out alone in a small boat on the Murray River near Tocumwal, along the New South Wales–Victoria border.

Patrick was last seen at Pebbly Beach campground on the Victorian side of the river at around 10:30 a.m. on Friday, October 16, 2026. Police believe he went fishing in a small boat at approximately midday.

When he failed to return and could not be contacted, concerns quickly grew. Police and his family are now seriously worried about his welfare.

An empty boat raises urgent concerns

According to reports from the area, a witness heard cries for help before discovering a small boat circling on the river without anyone aboard.

The discovery prompted an urgent response as authorities began searching the surrounding waterways and nearby areas. Investigators have not yet publicly established exactly what happened to Patrick after he set out.

A coordinated search across the river

The operation has involved NSW Police, Victoria Police, NSW Maritime, the State Emergency Service and specialist police divers.

Air support and police drones have also assisted the search. By Monday, October 19, emergency crews were continuing their efforts, with search activity focused around the Tocumwal area, including the Newell Highway Bridge and a nearby railway bridge.

Despite the resources involved, Patrick’s whereabouts remained unknown in the latest reports available.

Who is Patrick Evans?

Police describe Patrick as approximately 175 centimetres tall, with a slim build, a brown moustache and beard, and medium-length brown-blond hair.

Authorities are appealing to anyone who may have seen him near Pebbly Beach campground or on the Murray River on Friday to come forward. Even a seemingly small detail could help investigators reconstruct his movements.

For his family, every passing hour brings uncertainty as they wait for news. Police have stressed the seriousness of their concerns, but no confirmed explanation for his disappearance has been released.

The search continues, and Patrick’s family is waiting for answers.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers in Australia on 1800 333 000 or submit information through the official Crime Stoppers website.