Breaking News:
Vendor Disappearance Rocks Community
by: Miss Elle Toh, City Desk
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| Douglas Phur (2009 File Photo - Chronicle) |
Christmas City Police Chief Tony Holiday has confirmed that local tree vendor, Douglas Phur, is missing. In a hastily-called news conference, Holiday stated that Phur, seen at left in a 2009 Chronicle file photo, went missing late Saturday afternoon.
"The missing man's wife, Sally Spruce-Phur, expressed concern when her husband failed to come home for dinner, but notified us when he failed to return by 10 pm." Mr. Phur keeps his tree stand open until 9:30 for the convenience of last-minute shoppers.
Holiday went on to say that police quickly took control of what they are now referring to as a crime scene and have recovered several items from the area. Asked if they have any idea what might have happened to this city's popular tree vendor, Holiday refused to elaborate beyond, "We are analyzing the items for additional clues at this time."
This reporter, however, has received a photograph, sent anonymously, of the crime scene - apparently as it looked before Chief Holiday and his crew arrived. Regrettably, Holiday will not permit this reporter to publish it here due to the "ongoing investigation". Clicking on this link, however, will allow our faithful readers to see the shocking image.
Clearly, Mr. Phur did not go quietly.
In other developments, the Chronicle has learned that police have identified two "persons of interest" in Mr. Phur's disappearance (click on link):
Our source has indicated that these people are newcomers to our fair city but police are familiar with their identities, address and plan to speak with them soon. In viewing the photograph, several questions came to mind:
- Were these two people involved in the disappearance of Mr. Phur or were they merely unwitting witnesses to the nefarious events?
- Are there secrets to be found in the branches of the tree they're carrying away?
- What is the mysterious, whispy white substance seemingly stuck to the tree?
- Finally, red boots with a yellow purse? Seriously? Clearly, this 'woman of interest' has no interest in fashion!
Continue to turn to The Chronicle for the latest developments in this disturbing case!
