Police quiz husband of missing woman Karen Ristevski
Written for the Herald Sun. View original article.
LATEST: POLICE reject suggestions they’ve interviewed anyone besides the husband of a missing Avondale Heights woman, after his brother said another local had been spoken to about her disappearance.
Karen Ristevski, who runs the Bella Bleu boutique in Taylors Lakes, has been missing for two weeks.
She vanished after leaving her Oakley Drive home about 10am on June 29.
Missing woman Karen Ristevski. Picture: Supplied.
Senior Constable Ante Sandric speaking about the circumstances of her disappearance. Picture: Sarah Matray
Vic Ristevski, brother-in-law of missing Karen Ristevski pleads for information about her disappearance. Picture: David Hurley
It is believed the 47-year-old had been discussing business finances with husband Borce Ristevski before walking out to clear her head.
Victoria Police spokeswoman Acting Sergeant Melissa Seach confirmed Mr Ristevski had been interviewed after his wife’s disappearance.
“As part of the investigation, Karen’s house and the surrounding area has been searched,” Sgt Seach said.
“A 52-year-old Avondale Heights man was interviewed on Friday.”
Legal sources said it was standard practice for police to interview those closest to missing people and those who were the last to see them.
Cops deny second man interviewed, after brother’s claim
Vic Ristevski, Borce’s brother, arrived at the family home this afternoon with some food and said he understood police had also interviewed another man, also from Avondale Heights, following Karen’s disappearance.
“It’s terrible...We are all shocked,” he said.
“They have interviewed somebody else from Avondale Heights.”
But despite what Mr Ristevski said, Victoria Police said just one man had been interviewed after Mrs Ristevski’s disappearance at present.
Leonie Johnson, a Victoria Police spokeswoman, said: “Only one 52-year-old Avondale Heights man has been interviewed in relation to the investigation.”
Police also confirmed that there was no search being undertaken today for Ms Ristevski.
Vic Ristevski also appealed for his sister-in-law to make contact, if she is able to.
“If you are still alive talk to us,” he said.
“If you don’t want to talk to your husband give me a call or my wife.”
Mr Ristevski said Karen’s disappearance was out of character.
“The family is close ... Not long ago (our) niece had a 21st birthday.
“She (Karen) was happy then at the party.
“It’s not like her. I don’t talk to her much but when we get together she is happy.”
“He (Borce) is feeing awful, he can hardly talk.”
Two cars seized by police from the property are still being examined, according to Mr Ristevski.
“Give us a ring let us know you are alive,” he said.
“It is heartbreaking. I can hardly sleep at night. I wake up at 2am ... it’s a nightmare.”
Missing mum Karen Ristevski celebrates daughter's 21st birthday
Daughter Sarah earlier spoke of how out of character it was for her mother to miss work.
“I just want my mum to come home,” she said. “It’s not like her to miss work as well.
“It’s not like her.”
Speaking last week before he was interviewed by police, Mr Ristevski said in the past his wife had left their home, which is in a quiet area backing on to the Maribyrnong River, to cool off but never for more than a couple of hours.
“She has always walked back in the door after calming down,” Mr Ristevski said.
It is understood Ms Ristevski was carrying $850 in cash. Her mobile phone is switched off and her debit card has not been used.
Ms Ristevski is described as 160cm with a slim build and shoulder-length brown hair.
She was last seen wearing a black jacket and jeans, carrying a silver handbag.
She often visits Taylors Lakes and works in retail at the Watergardens Shopping Centre.
Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
