Search Area Expands for Missing Ballarat Woman Samantha Murphy

Police have added a new focus location to their search for Samantha Murphy, a 51-year-old woman from Ballarat who went missing after going on a morning run.

Murphy left her home on Eureka Street in Ballarat East at around 7am on Sunday but did not return. The search initially focused on Woowookarung Regional Park and bushland near the Buninyong Golf Course. However, police have now expanded the search area to include parts of Black Hill, Brown Hill, and Nerrina.

The new search area comprises of three bushland reserves, namely Black Hill Reserve, Chisholm Street Reserve, and Monte Christo Bushland Reserve, as well as the Wallaby Track.

Authorities have been utilizing mobile phone data and Murphy’s usual running routes to determine the search area. Forest Fire Management Victoria, CFA, SES, Victoria Police’s dog squad, mounted branch, solo unit, and air wing, along with community members, are involved in the search effort.

Due to safety reasons, the search was called off at nightfall on Monday and resumed this morning. The search teams gathered for a briefing at the Buninyong Police Station before commencing their search in the Buninyong area.

Police have described Murphy’s disappearance as out of character, as she was familiar with the trails she intended to run and frequented the area daily. Concerns for her welfare were heightened by the hot weather on Sunday, with temperatures reaching 36 degrees in Ballarat.

Murphy’s phone was with her and switched on when she went missing. Investigators are looking into whether the phone remained charged and operational.

Various units, such as helicopters, drones, and mounted police, were part of the search efforts on Monday. Many community members also joined the search, utilizing vehicles, bicycles, and foot patrols.

The police have urged the public to come forward with any information on Murphy’s whereabouts or if they have sighted her since she went missing. A liaison police officer has been assigned to support the family during this difficult time.

Murphy is described as a Caucasian woman, approximately 173 centimeters tall, with a slim build and shoulder-length blonde hair. She was last seen wearing black exercise leggings and a brown singlet.

Anyone with information is urged to contact CrimeStoppers or dial triple-zero in case of an emergency.