CHML
6/22/2012
New evidence in a 29-year-old cold case has prompted Brantford police to reopen it.
Mary Hammond, originally from Ancaster, disappeared in Brantford while on her way to work in the early morning hours of September 8, 1983.
She left her home on foot for the former Buns Master Bakery on Morton Avenue but never arrived.
Investigators traced Hammond's footprints from the back of the bakery to a field where some of her belongings and blood were found.
In a statement on their website police say that they looked into tips about a pickup truck that was seen leaving the rear of the bakery around the time Hammond disappeared.
The truck was described as an older brown pick-up possibly a Ford, with painted bumpers and round headlights. Despite appealing to the public and an exhaustive investigation, no truck matching that description has ever been found.
Investigators say new evidence has led them to a person of interest, a Brantford resident who is deceased. It has also allowed them to conduct a search of a Market Street residence. They are currently awaiting forensic results.
Police are appealing to the public for any information regarding Hammond's disappearance noting that the passage of time often causes changes in relationships because of the intense feeling of guilt that is often associated by those with information.
They add that no one should feel guilty coming forth at any point to assist in an investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact Sergeant Kristen Bell-Samson at 519-756-0113 ext. 2265.
Tipsters who wish to remain anonymous are asked to contact Brant-Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477.
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