When Brad Balong’s cousin Bryan Balong went missing on Nov. 22, his family expected to find him within a few days. He never expected to still be searching almost two weeks later.
Bryan was last seen in the North End.
“We were hopeful that we would find him within the first 48 hours, which is why we haven’t had a co-ordinated search effort, like with Kevin Dilk,” said Brad.
That co-ordinated search got started on Saturday at Margaret Park School, where close to 80 people turned out to help search for the missing 31 year old.
The searchers marked out 20 different areas to search that covered an area extending from Vince Leah Park south to Inkster Boulevard, from Kildonan Park, along Scotia Street, and towards McPhillips Street.
Brad said he never expected the number of people who turned out to help, including the Bear Clan Patrol.
He described Bryan as a ‘jokester’ who drew people to him, but also said he struggled with depression and suicidal thoughts in the past, and had recently become withdrawn and reclusive.
The searchers will be putting up flyers with Bryan’s picture on it and searching for clues.
Bryan is described as five feet, 10 inches (70 centimetres) tall, with a medium build and black hair, cut in a Mohawk style.
He was last seen wearing a grey Jordan sweat suit.
Winnipeg police are concerned for his well-being. Anyone with information can call 204-986-6250.
Searchers take to social media
Friends, family and volunteers of the missing man have started using the hashtag #comehomeb to bring awareness.
Everyone could be seen wearing shirts with Bryan’s picture on the front and the hashtag on the back.
A Facebook group has also been created to co-ordinate search efforts.
