Stratford police are trying to kick-start a 9-year-old missing person case by offering a $10,000 reward.
The police service announced on Thursday afternoon it will give the cash to anyone who provides information leading to the confirmed whereabouts of Derek Ritz and the closure of this case and/or the arrest and conviction of the people responsible for his disappearance.
The Sebringville man was reported missing to Perth OPP on January 7, 2017. That was days after he was last seen leaving his home around 1 a.m. on December 31, 2016. Ritz was 51-years-old at the time of his disappearance.
The case was transferred to Stratford police in April 2019. Since then, police have interviewed more than 100 potential witnesses in the case and conducted extensive searches at various properties in the area.
"The recovery of Derek Ritz remains an utmost priority to the Stratford Police Service,” Acting Deputy Chief Mark Taylor said in a statement. “It has been nine years since his disappearance. We would like to provide closure to all who were close to Mr. Ritz, and recognize the impact his disappearance has had on the greater community."
Police are asking anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to call investigators. Information and tips can be provided to Detective Sergeant Mike Weyers at 519-271-4147 extension 8184, or to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
