Police are appealing for help from the public to try and trace a missing father and his four-year-old son.
On Sunday evening (4 July 2021) officers received a report that Ian Malone, 44, had not returned home after leaving an address in Rowlands Gill with his young son, who cannot be named for legal reasons.
Now police are appealing for help from anyone who may have seen Ian and a small child since Sunday evening.
Detective Chief Inspector Jane Fairlamb of Northumbria Police, said:
"Our priority is ensuring both Ian and his son are safe and well so we need to trace their whereabouts as soon as possible. We are now asking for help from anyone who may know where they are. If you can help then please contact us immediately."
Police have released this E-FIT of Mr. Malone in hope people may recognise him.
He was last seen wearing a black jacket, light t-shirt, black trousers, black trainers, a black face mask and carrying a black backpack.
It should be noted that the crime reference number attached to this case is identical to the one shared on Social Media platforms across the weekend in relation to a young boy from the Rowlands Gill area of Tyne & Wear.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police, or by calling 101, quoting reference number NP-20210704-0851.
Alternatively you can call the charity CrimeStoppers, anonymously, on 0800555111