Stratford Police Service has announced a significant financial incentive in the hopes of generating new leads in the disappearance of a local man. A $10,000 reward is now being offered for information that leads to locating Derek Ritz, who was reported missing on New Year's Day.
Details of the Disappearance
The investigation began on January 1, 2026, after Ritz was reported missing to authorities. Police have released his photograph to the public, appealing for anyone with knowledge of his whereabouts to come forward. While specific details surrounding the circumstances of his disappearance remain limited, the establishment of a substantial cash reward indicates the seriousness with which investigators are treating the case and their desire to break any potential dead ends.
A Substantial Reward for Information
The $10,000 reward is contingent on information that directly assists police in finding Derek Ritz. This strategy is often employed by law enforcement to encourage witnesses or individuals with private knowledge to step forward, especially in cases where time is a critical factor. The police have not specified a deadline for the reward, emphasizing their ongoing commitment to solving the case.
Community and Police Appeal
Authorities are urging residents of Stratford and the surrounding regions to be vigilant. They are asking the public to review any personal footage from security or doorbell cameras that may have captured relevant activity. Anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, is strongly encouraged to contact the Stratford Police Service immediately. The community's cooperation is viewed as essential in bringing this missing persons case to a resolution and providing answers to Ritz's family and friends.
