UMVA has learned that Hamilton homicide detectives are intensifying their investigation into the mysterious disappearance of Emily Bailey, a 23-year-old mother of two who vanished on New Year’s Day in 2022.
Detectives have zeroed in on a Victorian home in the downtown core, a locale that Bailey had previously frequented, and are conducting a thorough search of the premises for several days. This development suggests that investigators have received crucial information that warrants a deep dive into this location.
The investigation took a dark turn three months after Bailey’s disappearance, when police reclassified the missing persons probe as a homicide investigation. Authorities suspect foul play and have pieced together a timeline that suggests Bailey did not intend to abandon her life.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Bailey was an active presence on social media and was deeply involved with her daughters’ lives, making her sudden disappearance all the more baffling. Investigators believe that she had not planned to simply vanish, leaving behind a trail of unanswered questions.
“We have new information that led us to the address on Stinson,” Det. Sgt. John Obrovac revealed. “We are searching for Emily and any evidence relating to her disappearance.” The detective hinted that two tipsters had come forward with critical information, both having “intimate knowledge surrounding the circumstances that led to Emily’s death.”
The search for Bailey has been extensive, with investigators poring over her last known movements. Before her disappearance, she lived with her boyfriend, Jeff Johnson, on Weir St. N. in the city’s east end. Bailey was last seen leaving the home on New Year’s Day, but her destination remains a mystery.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that Johnson, who had been serving a two-year sentence in a federal prison for theft and breaking and entering, is currently on day parole. His brother reportedly resides in the Stinson street home, which has become a focal point in the investigation.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Bailey had a reported connection with a dark GMC or Chevy pickup in the week leading up to her disappearance. This lead has sparked concerns about potential foul play, with detectives urging anyone with information to come forward.
“We believe events surrounding her disappearance have indicated the possibility of foul play,” Det. Sgt. Jim Callender said. “Some of those people may have more information they haven’t shared, and there are probably some people who have never come forward to police, some people who have been hesitant to divulge what they know.”
Bailey is described as “outgoing and devoted to her daughters,” making her disappearance all the more unusual. She is 5 foot 4 with a slim build, weighing about 100 pounds, with shoulder-length dark brown hair and dyed blue or green highlights. Anyone with information is urged to contact investigators at 905-546-2458 or 905-546-3827.
