Brazilian psychologist Vitoria Figueiredo Barreto, 30, has been missing for 15 days after she was last seen on March 3 at the University of Essex in Colchester. Police are investigating numerous potential sightings and have found her laptop and tote bag in Brightlingsea.
Key Takeaways
The search for missing Brazilian psychologist Vitoria Figueiredo Barreto continues in Essex after she vanished 15 days ago. Police found her laptop and suspect she may have taken a boat from Brightlingsea that was later discovered adrift near Bradwell-on-Sea without its buoyancy aid.
- Vitoria, 30, disappeared on March 3 after visiting the University of Essex with friend Liliane Silva
- CCTV shows her entering a boatyard in Brightlingsea around midnight on March 4
- A boat believed to be taken by Vitoria was found adrift near Bradwell-on-Sea without its buoyancy aid
- Her laptop and tote bag were discovered in separate locations in Brightlingsea
- Police are investigating multiple potential sightings of Vitoria
According to Essex Police, Vitoria spent time with friend Liliane Silva working on a project before becoming quiet and upset. She was last seen boarding the 87 bus to Brightlingsea, an area she had never visited before. The last person thought to have seen her is Justin Francis, who encountered her while walking his dog along Bellfield Avenue.
CCTV footage shows Vitoria entering a boatyard in Brightlingsea around midnight on March 4. Police believe she may have taken a boat that was later found adrift near Bradwell-on-Sea without its buoyancy aid. The vessel did not appear to have had its engine started and drifted out of the harbor before coming to rest close to Bradwell-on-Sea.
Vitoria's family has urged the Brazilian community in Essex to display Brazilian flags, hoping it will attract her attention and make her feel safe. Detective Superintendent Anna Granger assured that every officer involved is working around the clock to reunite Vitoria with her mother. Police are asking anyone with information or potential sightings of Vitoria to come forward.
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