Cape Breton police end search for missing man

GLACE BAY, N.S. – Police have suspended the search for a Cape Breton man who has been missing since New Year’s Eve.

Desiree Vassallo, spokeswoman for the Cape Breton Regional Police, said Wednesday the decision was based on a lack of leads from the search around Glace Bay.

Francis Rose, 52, was last seen by his family at about 8 p.m. when he left to play poker machines.

When asked if the Glace Bay man might have accidentally fallen into Renwick Brook, Vassallo said police are exploring all options.

"He was last seen in an area close to there. That is why they searched the waterway around there."

Vassallo said officers will follow up any new leads.

Rose’s sister, Theresa King of Glace Bay, said the family is devastated the search was suspended.

"We’d love to see them keep searching for Francis," she said. "He has not been found. We need closure.

"It would be different if Francis ran away but this is an unusual situation and the police should be doing more about it."

King said her brother isn’t a drinker but on New Year’s Eve drank half a bottle of wine.