The sudden disappearance of 17-year-old Pheobe Bishop from Bundaberg, Queensland, has left a community in turmoil and sparked a complex police investigation. As days turn into weeks, the search for Pheobe continues, with authorities and locals striving to uncover the truth behind her vanishing.
Timeline of Events
Pheobe Bishop has not been seen or heard from since May 15. (Supplied: QPS)
May 15, 2025: The Last Sighting
Bishop was last seen around 8:30 AM near Bundaberg Airport. She had booked a flight to Western Australia to visit her boyfriend. Her housemates, James Wood and Tanika Bromley, claimed they dropped her off at the airport. However, CCTV footage confirmed that never entered the terminal, and her flight was not boarded.
May 21, 2025: Crime Scenes Declared
Police declared the Gin Gin property where Pheobe lived and the grey Hyundai ix35 used for her airport drop-off as crime scenes. Investigators began extensive searches in the surrounding areas, including Good Night Scrub National Park.
May 27, 2025: Weapons Charges Filed
Tanika Bromley was arrested and charged with multiple weapons offenses after police discovered firearms and ammunition in the vehicle and property linked to Pheobe’s disappearance. She was granted bail and is scheduled to appear in court on June 23.
June 4, 2025: James Wood Taken into Custody
James Wood was taken into custody for questioning regarding disappearance. He was released several hours later without charge. Police stated that investigations are ongoing, with multiple lines of inquiry being pursued.
The Investigation
Police found some items of interest in the Good Night Scrub National Park. (HANDOUT/QUEENSLAND POLICE SERVICE)
The Queensland Police have conducted extensive searches in various locations, including Good Night Scrub National Park, using cadaver dogs, divers, and drones. Some items believed to be linked to the investigation were seized for forensic examination. However, the search was scaled back on June 4, with authorities stating that physical searches would resume as needed based on new information.
Community Response
The disappearance of Pheobe Bishop has deeply affected the local community. Residents of Gin Gin and Bundaberg have rallied around her family, launching the “Leave the Lights On for Pheobe” campaign to symbolize hope for her safe return. Social media has been instrumental in spreading awareness, with Pheobe’s mother, Kylie Johnson, making heartfelt appeals for information.
Appeal for Information
Authorities are urging anyone with information about Pheobe’s whereabouts or the movements of the grey Hyundai ix35 between May 15 and May 18 in the Gin Gin area to come forward. Pheobe is described as approximately 180cm tall, with a pale complexion, long dyed red hair, and hazel eyes. She was last seen wearing a green tank top and grey sweatpants, carrying luggage.
Also Read: S&P/ASX 200 Dips Slightly After Hitting 50-Day High
Conclusion
The case of Pheobe Bishop’s disappearance remains open, with police continuing their investigation and the community holding onto hope for her safe return. As authorities pursue leads and analyze evidence, the collective efforts of law enforcement and the public are crucial in seeking answers and bringing closure to Pheobe’s family.
