The family of a Wigan man who has been missing for two weeks is making a heartfelt plea to the public, urging them to "stick to the facts" and refrain from speculation as the search for Darren Orme continues. Orme, 54, was last seen on March 5, 2025, at around 9 PM at the junction of Woodhouse Lane and Beech Hill Lane near Standish.
This developing situation has touched many in the community, with significant efforts made to locate him, though sadly, he has not yet been found. In an update released on March 19, the family expressed their gratitude towards the public for their ongoing support and their determination to help find Darren. They requested anyone with information about his whereabouts to contact the police immediately.
According to the Manchester Evening News (M.E.N), a family member shared, “I spoke with the family this morning, and they are aware that a lot of speculation is circulating. They ask that people please just stick to the facts.” This plea comes amid a wave of community concern and involvement in the search for Darren.
The family highlighted that searches are being conducted daily by themselves and local volunteers, alongside support from law enforcement agencies. “If anyone comes across anything relevant to Darren's return, please contact the police right away,” they urged. They also conveyed their appreciation for the community's safety during this search effort, emphasizing, “Your safety while searching is paramount, so please be careful. They cannot thank you enough for your support.”
A community search event on Saturday, March 15, brought nearly 100 volunteers together to scour the area for any clues related to Darren’s disappearance. His family noted that they received numerous reports over the weekend regarding possible sightings of him, reinforcing the community's vigilance. The family pleaded with local residents to keep looking, saying, “Quite a few messages and calls have been coming in over the weekend with possible sightings and other information which has kept the police busy chasing up.”
Darren Orme is described as being 6 feet 3 inches tall, of slim build, with short red/ginger hair. At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing blue jeans, blue trainers, and a navy blue Wigan Athletic jumper, along with a black gilet. This distinctive clothing may aid the public in recognizing him should they happen to come across any information.
In a crucial update shared by Greater Manchester Police, authorities stated, “We continue to search for Darren and, through our detectives, we are appealing to anyone with dashcam footage who was driving along Scot Lane Close to the junction of Woodhouse Lane on March 5, 2025, between 8:45 PM and 9 PM.” This effort seeks to gather any potential evidence that might lead to his whereabouts.
As the search for Darren continues, his family remains hopeful. They convey a shared sentiment within the community, expressing appreciation for how many individuals have been actively looking for him. “That’s unbelievable how much drive there is to find him. Please understand everything is being done to find him. Thank you everyone from the family for your continued support,” they remarked. This gratitude has resonated deeply among community members and volunteers who have been tirelessly involved.
The public's response has been significant, highlighting how much Darren's presence is missed. The collective determination reflects a community rallying together in times of crisis. The family reiterated their requests for adherence to factual information, emphasizing that it is vital to keep the search on the right track.
In the midst of this heartbreaking situation, the family has built a sense of solidarity through the support they are receiving. They acknowledge the emotional toll this experience is taking but remain committed to searching for Darren. “This being said shows how extra vigilant you are being out there. Please continue with that determination to find him,” they added, urging the community to stay engaged in the search.
Support from local establishments has also been evident, with venues like the Brickmakers Arms serving as communication hubs for updates and information sharing about Darren. Community members have been encouraged to gather and provide any leads they might have, fostering a strong sense of togetherness.
Areas around Wigan are now marked by the goodwill of search teams and the public, who continue to comb through local neighborhoods, parks, and adjacent areas. With each passing day, the hope remains that someone will come forward with crucial information.
Ultimately, as the search enters its third week, Darren's family appeals for continued support in bringing him home. They stress that, with the public's help, it may be possible to locate him, whether through direct assistance or simply keeping an eye out for someone who fits Darren’s description.
The community’s collective effort has already yielded numerous phone calls and messages to the police, demonstrating that Darren’s case has resonated with many. “Your continued vigilance is critical in this search,” the family emphasized, underscoring that every bit of effort could potentially make a difference.
As updates continue to roll in from both the police and family, the situation remains a focal point for local news. For anyone with information, it is crucial to reach out to the authorities to assist in finding Darren Orme. The family wishes to thank all those involved for their kindness and cooperation during this distressing time.
The search for Darren Orme serves as a reminder of the strength of community ties and the power of collective action during trying times. In moments like these, every act of solidarity can help pave the way toward answers and reunification.
