Ontario Provincial Police say an 81-year-old Peterborough man has been charged with murder more than two years after his 58-year-old son was reported missing.

The investigation began on Jan. 7, 2024, when a family member contacted police after being unable to reach Michael Walker, 58, of Norland, Ont. The family member told officers they were concerned about his well-being.

Police launched a missing-person investigation and carried out extensive searches and investigative efforts, but Walker could not be located.

According to CP24, as the investigation continued, investigators gathered information that led them to believe his disappearance may have involved foul play.

More than two years later, on Sept. 16, 2026, police charged Walker’s father, Bazil Walker, 81, of Peterborough, in connection with his son’s disappearance and death.

Bazil Walker has been charged with second-degree murder and indignity to a dead body under the Criminal Code.

Police say the accused remains in custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Lindsay on Sept. 24, 2026.

The investigation is being led by the City of Kawartha Lakes OPP Crime Unit under the direction of the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch. Police are working with the Office of the Chief Coroner and the Ontario Forensic Pathology Service, with assistance from OPP Forensic Identification Services.

Anyone who may have information that could assist investigators is asked to contact the City of Kawartha Lakes OPP at 1-888-310-1122.