**Body Discovered near Llandudno During Search for Missing Teenager**
A body has been recovered off the coast of Llandudno during an extensive search for a teenage boy missing since the weekend, North Wales Police have confirmed this evening.
Sixteen-year-old Athrun, from South Gloucestershire, was reported missing after disappearing on Saturday, 10th May, while on a family trip to North Wales. His disappearance triggered a major multi-agency operation, involving police, coastguard, and air support, and prompted significant concern from both his family and the wider community.
The search efforts, which had been ongoing for five days, intensified on Wednesday, 14th May, after officers received reports of a body spotted near the West Shore area the previous evening. Police underwater teams, the National Police Air Service (NPAS), and coastguard units resumed operations in the area. At approximately 6.20pm, a body was successfully recovered from the water.
A spokesperson for North Wales Police revealed: “A body has been recovered this evening during searches for missing 16-year-old Athrun. Extensive joint searches resumed today after a sighting was reported on Tuesday evening. The body was recovered at around 6.20pm. While formal identification is pending, Athrun’s family are being kept informed and are receiving assistance from specially trained officers.”
Police have stated that the circumstances surrounding Athrun’s death are not believed to be suspicious. The coroner has been notified and will oversee any formal proceedings linked to the case. At this stage, officials have declined to provide further information pending the completion of identification processes.
Chief Inspector Trystan Bevan offered his sympathies, saying: “My deepest condolences remain with Athrun’s family, and I would ask for their privacy to be respected at this incredibly sad and difficult time. This is not the result anyone wanted, and I am deeply grateful to our partner agencies and the public for their unwavering support and help during this search.”
Athrun’s last known whereabouts were near the boating lake and playpark, close to Llandudno’s shore, wearing blue and white patterned swim shorts. The teenager’s disappearance sparked a mobilisation of specialist teams, employing both land and water searches and aerial sweeps from the outset after the family sounded the alarm.
Tuesday evening’s reported sighting heightened hopes of a resolution, but the outcome has nonetheless delivered a devastating blow to those involved, particularly Athrun’s family. The police response has been characterised by close collaboration across agencies, as well as significant contributions from volunteers and members of the local community.
Communities in Llandudno and South Gloucestershire remain in shock after the sad news. Local authorities have encouraged people to give the family space to grieve, and mental health support has been offered to those involved in the search operation.
North Wales Police have thanked everyone who assisted, reaffirming their commitment to supporting the family. Further statements are expected after formal identification is complete and more details are available.
The case stands as a sobering reminder of the dangers that can occur along the coastline and highlights the professionalism and diligence of rescue and police agencies when responding to such tragic events.