Marion Hodge: Man served indictment over death of woman who disappeared in 1984

A man has been served papers indicting him in connection with the death of a mum-of-two who disappeared 39 years ago.

Marion Hodge, from Lockerbie, was last seen in the Whitesands area of Dumfries around 7.30am on Friday, July 6, 1984.

The mum, who lived in the Balgray area, was declared legally dead by the Court of Session in 1992, however, her body has never been found.

On Friday, December 22, 2023, officers served a 78-year-old man with an indictment in connection with the death.

Detective inspector Angela Barr, senior investigating officer, said: “A number of people have contacted police to provide information following our re-appeal from February 2022.

“I would like to thank them for their assistance, along with all those who have helped with the investigation so far.”

Detectives launched a fresh appeal for information last year to encourage members of the public to submit information.

Police said Ms Hodge was reported to be carrying a blue canvas suitcase and brown handbag, wearing a cream high collared blouse, grey skirt and black sandals at the time of her disappearance.

In March last year, detective inspector Stephen McGrath, senior investigating officer, said: “The response to our appeal so far has been positive but we are continuing to ask the public to contact us if they have any information that might help.

“Marion’s family and friends deserve closure.

“We’re appealing to anyone who remembers anything unusual leading up to Marion’s disappearance, any sightings in the Whitesands area or any other relevant information that might help our inquiry.”

Ms Hodge was 34-years-old at the time of her disappearance and worked in the town’s Clydesdale Bank. She was described as 5ft 4in, slim build with dark brown collar length hair.

DI McGrath said detectives were trying to get answers for her loved ones.

One of Ms Hodge’s four siblings, Frances, urged anyone with information to contact the police.

Previously, she said: “When we were told that she had ‘gone away’ we believed this was uncharacteristic of Marion as she wouldn’t have left in that manner.

“She would never have turned her back on her children. The day Marion disappeared was her son’s 15th birthday.

“She thought too much of her children and would never have run out on them like that. I would appeal to anyone who has any information from that time, or has since remembered anything that might prove to be crucial, to please contact the police.”