OXFORD, UK – The search for 20-year-old Benedict, known as Ben, has entered its seventh day, with the community of Oxford intensifying efforts to locate the young man who disappeared during the early hours of January 26. Ben was last seen around 1 AM near Cripley Road area of Botley, prompting widespread concern and urgent action from local authorities and residents alike.
Witnesses described Ben wearing distinctive clothing at the time of his disappearance, including a red chequered shirt layered over a black t-shirt, light blue baggy jeans, and trainers. Surveillance footage released by Thames Valley Police has helped circulate his image through social media platforms, reinforcing the community's collective effort to find him.
City councillor Susanna Pressel expressed her distress over Ben's continued absence. “It’s so sad to hear Ben is still missing. I’m sure his family and friends are beside themselves with anxiety, but even people who have never met him are helping where they can,” she said. Pressel noted the importance of community connectivity, highlighting how they have utilized local WhatsApp and email groups to disseminate information and photos rapidly among residents.
Thames Valley Police have been working diligently alongside Lowland Rescue Oxfordshire, deploying both foot patrols and marine units. Detective Inspector George Atkinson updated the public, stating, “We are continuing our investigation to search for missing man Ben with foot patrols of the river downstream from Ben’s last known sighting. We are also conducting additional CCTV inquiries.”
Efforts have been complicated due to high and fast-flowing water conditions which pose challenges to the search. Officers remain alert to the dangers of these conditions, adjusting their search strategy when necessary to prioritize safety.
On Wednesday, various aerial searches commenced, with the National Police Air Service (NPAS) helicopter visible overhead, complemented by the deployment of drones to survey larger areas from above, allowing law enforcement to track any potential leads effectively.
Given the current situation, Thames Valley Police are appealing to the public for any possible information related to Ben's disappearance. The police have urged anyone who might have seen him or have information about his whereabouts to contact them directly at 101, citing reference number 43250042464.
Meanwhile, Lowland Rescue Oxfordshire is also facing challenges of its own. Recently, their operation encountered technical difficulties when their generator was rendered unusable, prompting significant hindrances to their response coordination efforts. The charity team, comprising professional volunteers dedicated to locating high-risk vulnerable individuals, expressed gratitude toward local businesses for their swift assistance, with Witney Mowers having repaired the generator within 48 hours and at no cost. “We rely heavily on donations and grants to make a difference, so acts of kindness such as these are very important and hugely appreciated,” the team mentioned.
The partnership with Lowland Rescue is key, as they provide invaluable support to emergency services during times of community crises. With the public rallying behind this cause, the support shown toward Ben’s family is palpable, reflecting the compassionate spirit of Oxford residents.
The community’s involvement is not just limited to sharing information; they have been actively keeping watch, stepping up to assist the search parties. This collective action is bolstered by the shared anxiety and concern for Ben's well-being, with residents hoping for his safe return.
Despite the heightened anxiety surrounding this situation, there is hope and determination shared among family, friends, and the community. The mix of innovative search efforts and continuous public awareness might yet culminate in bringing Ben home. Locals continue to be encouraged to look out for any signs or information as the search for Benedict persists.
With no updates on his status as of Saturday, February 1, 2025, the priority remains to find Ben and offer his family the closure they desperately seek. For updates, residents are urged to follow local news and social media channels as this sorrowful situation develops.