POLICE investigating the disappearance of missing York chef Claudia Lawrence are now treating her case as suspected murder.
Detective Superintendent Ray Galloway, the man leading the investigation, made the announcement during a press conference at the city's Fulford Road police station this morning.
Det Supt Galloway said: "Any murder investigation has to prove a death.
"At the moment, we have no proof of Claudia's death.
"However, five weeks on from her disappearance, we have no proof of her life.
"I am investigating this disappearance as one of murder."
Miss Lawrence was last seen by colleagues at York University's Goodricke College, on March 18.
Her father, Peter Lawrence, made an emotional plea to his daughter at this morning's press conference.
A £10,000 reward for information about Miss Lawrence has been offered by Crimestoppers.
Anyone with information is asked to call North Yorkshire Police, on 0845-60-60247, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555-111.
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