A rescue helicopter flew over the Menai Strait in the ongoing search for a teenager who entered the water on Friday. The alarm was raised shortly before 9:45 am on Friday when it was reported that an individual had plunged into the water at Menai Bridge. An extensive search and rescue operation was swiftly launched, involving emergency teams from the RNLI, North Wales Police, North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, the Coastguard, and the Aeronautical Rescue Co-Ordination Centre.
Despite their tireless efforts, emergency services were unable to locate the individual, and the search was suspended on Friday night. Additional shoreline searches have been conducted over the weekend. Social media reports indicated that family and friends of the missing person are also assisting in the search along the shore. It is believed the missing individual is a local teenage boy.
This afternoon, the Coastguard helicopter carried out sweeps of the Strait to aid in the search. The Coastguard confirmed they had received two reported potential sightings, reports North Wales Live. However, upon inspection, these turned out to be false alarms with good intentions.
The boy’s family and friends have received hundreds of messages of support on social media, along with numerous offers of assistance in the search. People have been urged to exercise extreme caution around the coastline and not to take any risks.
Various helplines and websites offer support for mental health issues. Samaritans provides a 24-hour phone service on 116 123, while PAPYRUS offers support to young people experiencing thoughts of suicide on HOPELINE247 at 0800 068 4141. Mind is a mental health charity that provides advice and support for anyone experiencing a mental health problem. Pete’s Dragons offers specialist support for anyone affected by suicide.
The ongoing search for the missing teenager continues, with hopes of a safe and successful resolution.