The case of missing Belgian backpacker Theo Hayez has been referred to the NSW coroner, more than three months after the teenager disappeared from the popular beach town of Byron Bay.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The 18-year-old backpacker was last seen on CCTV walking through the northern seaside hamlet after leaving the Cheeky Monkey's bar about 11pm on May 31.
NSW Police confirmed that investigators had referred his disappearance to the coroner.
"The family wish to thank the public and the community volunteers for their ongoing support. They have requested privacy at this time," it said in a statement on Monday.
It comes after police suspended an extensive land, air and sea search for the teenager in July.
Police began searching when they were alerted to his disappearance by staff at the Wake Up! Hostel in Byron Bay on June 6.
Hostel staff raised the alarm six days after Mr Hayez failed to return from a night out. His belongings, including his passport, were left there untouched.
His father, Laurent Hayez, flew into Australia that month and made an emotional public appeal to help find his son.
"I promised Theo's little brother that I would bring his brother home. Please, help me keep my promise to him," he told reporters through tears at Tweed Heads Police Station.
Australian Associated Press
