MOE, VIC. — Missing Persons Squad detectives are appealing for public information as part of their investigation into the suspicious disappearance of Albert Pisani in 1986.
Today marks 40 years since the 27-year-old disappeared from his Moe address on October 10, 1986.
He was last seen walking on Prince Street, and it is understood he was intending to use a bank in Moe, then return home to his partner and five children for lunch.
Albert would regularly travel for a few days on road trips, so family members were not immediately concerned. He was reported missing to police a few days later on October 15.
Following extensive searches, Albert’s remains were located in bushland in Driffield on June 9, 1987, approximately 20km from where he resided in Moe.
Police believe Albert was met with foul play, which subsequently led to his death.
“We don’t think Albert went missing on his own accord or took his own life, but 40 years on we simply don’t know what happened to him, and we need help from the public to solve this case,” Detective Inspector David Dunstan, of the Missing Persons Squad, said.
Investigations have taken place over the past 40 years, and police have spoken to Albert’s family, friends and associates to try and determine the circumstances surrounding his disappearance.
Police believe Mr Pisani was involved in a dispute at this workplace, at the State Electricity Commission Briquette Factory in Morwell, before he went missing.
Albert had a fascination with trucks, developed relationships with local and interstate truck drivers and would regularly hitchhike across Australia.
At this stage, it remains unclear who may have been involved and if there is any possible motivation for causing him harm.
Albert has no criminal history and was not known to police before his disappearance.
Back in November 2015, Victoria Police announced a $1,000,000 reward for information to identify those responsible for the death of Mr Pisani.
“His disappearance was out of character, and we believe he was met with foul play. These types of missing persons investigations are never closed and sadly, Albert’s killer remains out there,” Det. Insp. Dunstan said.
A reward of up to $1,000,000 will be paid at the discretion of the Chief Commissioner for information leading to the apprehension and subsequent conviction of the person or persons responsible for the death of Mr Pisani.
The Director of Public Prosecutions will consider, according to established guidelines, the granting of indemnification from prosecution to any person who provides information as to the identity of the principal offender or offenders in this matter.
“We need anyone with any information on what may have happened to Albert to come forward and assist us to solve the mystery of his disappearance and subsequent death,” Det. Insp. Dunstan said.
Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
