The desperate search for a missing teenager who went missing 17 days ago has intensified and the criminal investigation unit has joined in.
Isla Bell, 19, was last seen leaving her home in Brunswick, in Melbourne’s inner north, on October 4 at around 6pm.
Her friends and family have since shared numerous photos of the young woman online and urged anyone who sees her to contact police, especially if she is accompanied by an “older man.”
Ms Bell’s mother, Justine Spokes, first shared her worries online last week.
“My girlfriend is missing and misses me very much,” she wrote on Facebook.
“It leaves a mark, it’s hard to forget about it. He has a fighting spirit, sometimes loud, sometimes quiet, always persistent.
‘We’re here for you, buddy. I love you, my caring teddy bear.
Ms Spokes later revealed the family had planned to visit the Great Barrier Reef to celebrate Ms Bell’s 20th birthday, but became concerned when they were unable to contact her.
Isla Bell (pictured), 19, was last seen leaving her home in Brunswick, North Melbourne, on October 4 at around 6pm
Mrs Bell (pictured) went missing 17 days ago with friends and family asking for the public’s help to find her
Hey, buddy. “We are looking forward to our trip to the reef to celebrate your birthday,” she wrote in a public message to Ms. Bell.
“We have been trying to call you regarding flight bookings. Let us know what you think.
We love you, darling.
Ms Bell’s close friend Tamara Griffiths has also posted multiple updates on the search for the missing teenager.
She claimed that the Fawkner Crime Investigation Unit had been assigned to the 19-year-old’s case.
“If you see anyone matching Isla’s description, especially in the company of an older man, please report it immediately,” Ms Griffiths wrote in one post.
“Do not approach or intervene – your safety is also important.
“Isla is very loved by her family and friends. Every share and every set of eyes that look at her brings us one step closer to bringing her home safely.
Victoria Police is investigating Ms Bell’s disappearance and described her as having a “slim build, red hair, pale complexion and piercings in her nose, lips and eyebrows”.
“Police and family have concerns for her welfare due to the length of time she has been missing,” the statement said.
“Isla could have gone to the Melbourne CBD.”
Friends and family of Ms Bell (pictured) are urging anyone who sees her to contact police, especially if she is accompanied by an ‘older man’
The Fawkner Investigations Unit has reportedly been assigned to the Ms Bell case (pictured)
On Sunday, Griffiths shared a more detailed description of Bell, noting that she is 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighs 110 pounds.
“Long, red, wavy hair reaching to her waist, numerous piercings in her face and tattoos on her right leg, left thumb – the symbol and left ring finger – the heart of love,” she said.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Brunswick Police Station on 8378 6000.
