The Hamilton Police Service has concluded the formal ground search for 62-year-old John Edwards, who was reported missing on June 11, 2025, from St. Joseph’s Villa in Dundas.
A Command Post was established on June 25, 2025, at the Millgrove United Church on Millgrove Side Road. This site served as the central hub for all coordinated search operations.
Despite exhaustive efforts—including coordinated foot patrols, Ground Search and Rescue (GSAR), Public Order Unit (POU) involvement, RPAS (drone) deployment, aerial (helicopter) support, canine, ATV, and mounted searches, as well as thorough follow-up on all public tips—there have been no confirmed sightings of Mr. Edwards beyond surveillance footage from June 11 at 4:08 p.m.
Difficult terrain, including dense brush, high grass, and bog-like areas, combined with John’s unpatterned movements and the absence of any means to track him, have significantly impacted the ability to continue with a sustained search strategy. With no digital footprint or tracking capabilities, investigators have been entirely reliant on public tips and video submissions from businesses and the community. The absence of a confirmed direction of travel and viable new leads has further limited efforts to effectively target search zones.
This decision was not made lightly and follows consultation with search experts from the OPP, GSAR, and POU. While the Command Post will no longer remain active, Hamilton Police will continue to investigate all tips, review additional video evidence as it becomes available, and remain engaged with both the community and Mr. Edwards’ family.
We continue to urge residents to check their properties, outbuildings, and nearby trail systems. Anyone with new information is encouraged to contact police, as the search for answers remains ongoing.
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