Police search for missing berry picker in Salo, Finland

The Southwest Finland Police have launched a search for a potentially missing berry picker in Salo. Authorities were alerted after a berry bucket, bicycle, and shirt were discovered at the edge of the forest on Kuuselankatu in Kauriskallio.

Preliminary assessments suggest that a person had been gathering blueberries in the area, but it remains unclear whether everything is alright, according to the police’s statement. The police are now seeking public assistance in the matter.

At the site, a white Solifer bicycle, which is designed for women, was found overturned with a basket attached to the handlebars. Next to the bicycle, a green berry bucket containing a couple of liters of blueberries was also located. Additionally, a blue T-shirt featuring the “Raw Power” print was found, commemorating a powerlifting championship held in Salo in 2017.

The police noted that no one has been reported missing in recent days, and there are no related incidents known to emergency services or healthcare providers.

The search is being conducted with the help of police dogs and a drone equipped with a thermal camera scanning the area. The voluntary rescue service VAPEPA has also been called to assist.

“We need some help to direct the search to the right place or person. Ideally, we hope that all berry pickers are safe, and we would like to be certain of this,” stated the Southwest Finland Police.

They request that any information regarding the case be reported to the emergency center at 112 or to the nearest police station. Furthermore, the police ask that only those guided by law enforcement or the voluntary rescue service enter the search area, as working police dogs are present, and all thermal traces detected by the drone must be investigated.