Police searching for 21-year-old university student Sebastian Sailes have made a grim discovery in the River Avon. However, officers have confirmed that the body found belongs to an elderly man, not Sebastian, whose disappearance remains a mystery.
The body of a man in his 70s was recovered earlier today near Westmead Open Space. Avon and Somerset Police have identified the deceased and informed his family. Officials confirmed there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.
“We can confirm that this is not missing man Sebastian Sailes, aged 21 years, for whom an extensive search operation is continuing. The body has been identified and his next of kin have been informed. Our thoughts are with them at this sad time,” a Wiltshire Police spokesperson said.
Sebastian was last seen leaving the Black Horse Pub in Chippenham at around 11:30 PM on Thursday, February 28. CCTV footage shows him walking towards Lovers Walk. Police believe he then headed south along Avon Valley Walk towards his home in Notton.
Residents and drivers in the Chippenham and Rowden Hill areas have been urged to check any CCTV, Ring doorbell, or dashcam footage from the night of his disappearance. Wildlife camera owners near the river have also been asked to help.
What Sebastian Looks Like
Age: 21
Height: 5ft 10ins
Build: Slim
Hair: Blonde/brown with a long fringe
Last Seen Wearing: Grey jumper, blue jeans, beige fur-lined jacket, white Adidas trainers
“Sebastian has now been missing since late Thursday evening, and we and his family are extremely worried about him. Finding him is a Force priority, and we are utilizing extensive resources to locate him, including exploring different routes he may have taken,” said Chief Inspector Ben Huggins of Wiltshire Police.
Police have asked the public not to fly drones over search areas to avoid interfering with rescue teams and volunteers on the ground. Sebastian’s family is being supported by specialist officers amid the ongoing search.
Anyone with information is urged to call 999, quoting log 141 of February 28.
Originally published by UKNIP.
