James and Ray Dempsey: Emergency services continue search for father and son missing near Meekatharra

A search is underway to find two men — a father and son from Perth — believed to be prospecting in the Meekatharra area after their camp site was found unattended for a number of days.

Meekatharra police and State Emergency Service are continuing a search for 33-year-old James Dempsey and 66-year-old Ray Dempsey after they were reported missing since Friday.

Police have urgent concerns for the pair’s welfare.

About 6pm on Saturday, March 2, a person responsible for land which the Dempsey’s were camping on notified police the prospectors had not returned to their camp site.

It is believed the men set up camp on a remote station on Friday morning and have not returned to the site since.

“Upon inspection it is believed the campsite is that of James and Ray and that they have failed to return after prospecting, “ a WA Police spokesperson said.

“It is not known how long the campsite has been unattended for.”

A number of police resources are travelling to the Meekatharra area to help local authorities in the search, including fixed wing and helicopter aerial support and highly trained trackers from the tactical response group.

Mid West-Gascoyne Supt. Steve Post said the search recommenced at first light on Monday and would continue throughout the day in an area about 50 minutes drive south of Meekatharra.

Police ask anyone with information to contact them immediately on 131 444.