Braydon Hepworth, a 21-year-old father of a nine-month-old daughter, has not been seen for nearly a month. His family says his disappearance is completely out of character, and police have confirmed they are treating the case with serious concern.
The last confirmed sighting of Hepworth was in late September in Christchurch. Police have now completed a scene examination at a Linwood property on the corner of Hereford and England Streets, believed to be his last known address. The house, which reportedly operates as a backpackers with several residents, was cordoned off while investigators worked.
What do we know about Braydon Hepworth's disappearance?
Police first appealed for help to find Hepworth on September 23 after he was reported missing. On Friday, they issued a fresh appeal and confirmed the Linwood property search. Detective Senior Sergeant Karen Simmons said the operation to understand the circumstances surrounding his disappearance remains ongoing.
Security footage showed Hepworth wearing a Monster Energy-branded beanie with headphones over the top. Police have not confirmed who he last spoke to, when he last accessed his bank accounts or phone, or whether he has accessed medication he uses daily for Type 1 diabetes.
A mother's desperate plea
Hepworth's mother, Char Huntley, has been appealing for information on Facebook since September 22. She has called hospitals across the South Island, contacted bus, shuttle and ferry companies, and walked the streets of Christchurch showing his photo.
“Please help me keep looking for my boy... He's 21 and Type 1 diabetic. He needs insulin daily to stay alive,” she wrote. “This is devastating, not knowing where he is, if he is safe, if he needs help but can't get it.”
Huntley revealed that as of August 4, Hepworth had about a month's worth of insulin. His phone is off, and all social media accounts are inactive. “I am very scared for his safety, and the not knowing is the worst,” she said.
Family and community rally around a missing father
The grandfather of Hepworth's daughter also posted online, describing the strong bond they built with the young father. He said Hepworth had been planning to get his car licence and was sorting out appointments, which made his disappearance even more concerning.
“I'm just lost for words, Braydon - please let us know where you are. You're not in trouble; we all just want you back home,” he wrote.
It is unclear if Hepworth was working at the time he went missing. In June 2025, he posted on Facebook looking for full-time work urgently.
How can the public help find Braydon Hepworth?
Police are urging anyone with information about Hepworth's whereabouts to call the non-emergency number 105 and reference file number 260918/8420. His family has asked people to keep sharing missing-person posts and to remain vigilant.
“Someone must know something that will lead to his location. Please help me find him. I love him, and I need him home,” Huntley said.
This case highlights the fragility of community safety nets and the importance of looking out for one another, especially for young families navigating health challenges and economic uncertainty. As the search continues, the hope is that someone, somewhere, will come forward with the piece of information that brings Braydon home.