‘Hiding’: Husband’s theory on missing wife

The search for a missing Perth woman has entered its fifth day, with police holding serious concerns for her welfare and her family offering a $100,000 reward for information that could lead to her safe return.

Michelle Joan Leahy, 50, was last seen on Thursday, October 16, near Hollywood Private Hospital on Monash Ave in Nedlands, where she was walking to an appointment but never arrived.

Her husband Murray Leahy has made an emotional plea to the public for help, offering a $100,000 reward for anyone who can help find her.

Mr Murray told the Daily Mail his wife had travelled to Perth from Kalgoorlie for medical treatment and may have become disorientated.

He said Ms Leahy could be hiding and avoiding people, given her mental state.

“She may be hiding out in any little nooks or crannies — old houses, back lanes — anywhere like that,” he said.

Mr Leahy told The West Australia it had been absolutely gut wrenching for their family.

“Michelle and I have three beautiful children who have grown up in a household where she’s been a very devoted, loving, nurturing, caring mother and really the centre of our family,” he said.

“To not know that she’s safe is causing the four of us to here at home a level of pain that I didn’t think was possible to be able to feel.”

Mr Leahy said his wife was dearly loved, appreciated, needed and wanted and not having her with them had created a gaping hole in the floor of their hearts.

“If you are there, regardless of what you may be feeling, know that we are here for you. We want you here,” he said.

“We want to help you get better, and want nothing more than your happiness and your safety.”

On Tuesday, Mr Leahy offered a reward of up to $100,000 for anyone who could help find her.

“We’ve got three kids that are at home with absolutely broken hearts (who) are desperate to see their mum return safe and sound,” Mr Leahy told Perth’s 6PR radio.

“We’ve reached a point of pure desperation where we’re offering a reward of up to $100,000 for anyone that can help find Michelle.

“We’re just asking anyone … in that Monash Ave, Clifton St, Hampden St area between 2.30pm and 3.30pm last Thursday (to call Crime Stoppers).”

Police are continuing to search for Ms Leahy and reviewing CCTV footage from the area.

“There’s been quite limited CCTV footage, and while some sightings, nothing confirmed at this point in time,” Mr Leahy said.

Ms Leahy was last seen wearing light brown sandals, chequered blue long pants, a white long-sleeve top, a black baseball cap, and carrying what appeared to be a blue side bag.

She is described as being about 175cm tall, of medium build, with brown hair and blue eyes.

Mr Leahy said he had been overwhelmed by the public’s response but urged people to remain vigilant.

“Members of the general public all over the place have been amazing, but unfortunately, it hasn’t resolved for us yet,” he said.

“We are still very, very concerned and working immensely hard to try and find Michelle, and the police have been doing everything in their power to support us.”

Anyone who sees Ms Leahy is urged to contact police immediately on 131 444.

Information about her whereabouts or recent movements can also be reported to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestopperswa.com.au.

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