William Tyrrell disappearance: NSW offers $1M reward to help find missing toddler

NSW has offered the biggest monetary reward in the state for anyone who can lead authorities to the whereabouts of missing toddler William Tyrrell. NSW Premier Mike Baird and NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione announced the $1 million reward on Monday, which coincide with the second anniversary of the now-5-year-old boy’s disappearance.

William, who was just three then, has been missing since Sep. 12, 2014. He was playing with his 5-year-old sister in the back and front yard of his grandmother’s house on Benaroon Drive in Kendall between 10 a.m. and 10:25 a.m. when he disappeared. He was wearing a Spider-Man outfit at that time. Within hours, local residents and emergency service workers helped in searching the town to look for him.

Strike Force Rosann was established a few days later to investigate his disappearance. It involves full-time investigators and analysts. Police suspect that the boy had been kidnapped and is still alive today.

“Today’s announcement demonstrates the NSW Government’s commitment to providing the NSW Police Force with everything that might be required to bring answers to families impacted by unsolved crimes,” Scipione said.

“This is a unique reward, it does not require the charge and conviction of any person(s), it relates to the recovery of William Tyrrell.”

The commissioner explained that they hoped to appeal to those who can help with the missing child’s recovery but are not inclined to assist. “If you know something, there are now a million reasons to come forward,” he added.

Since William’s disappearance, there were 2,800 reports from the public providing information. The police have identified 690 persons of interests, with the most high profile person questioned was 65-year-old washing machine repairman William “Bill” Spedding, who denied involvement.

NSW Police Force has clarified that the police are not seeking help from psychics, mediums or clairvoyants. Those who have information about the disappearance of William Tyrrell are urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report on the Crime Stoppers website.