Amsterdam police have received 140 tips within a day of launching a public appeal to identify an unknown man currently residing in a nursing home.
The man collapsed on the street three years ago after suffering a stroke or brain hemorrhage, which left him with aphasia. The resulting brain damage means he can only speak a few words.
Efforts to help him communicate using speech computers and letter boards have been unsuccessful. He primarily uses the English words “nonsense” and “definitely” to deny or confirm statements.
Known as Lucky and Chris
Prior to his collapse, the man was a member of a Buddhist community in Amsterdam-Oost, where he was known as Lucky.
He was also known to visit an eatery on the Waterlooplein for drinks, where people referred to him as “Chris the Canadian.”
Because he has only spoken English, police suspect that he is not from the Netherlands. A video with English subtitles was released to help spread the appeal internationally.
Cold case team reviewing tips
Police emphasized that this is a search rather than a criminal investigation, and the man is not suspected of any wrongdoing. Authorities usually only release images to the public when searching for suspects.
Inquiries made through the international police organization Interpol, including outreach to Canada and the United States, have not yet produced any matches.
The police cold case team is now reviewing all 140 tips received so far in hopes of finally learning his true identity.
