Bangor-on-Dee, Wrexham, UK – Police have discovered a body in the River Dee during the ongoing search for Lucy Charles, a 39-year-old woman who has been missing since December 22, 2023. Ms. Charles was last seen on CCTV walking past the Royal Oak pub in Bangor-on-Dee, Wrexham, at 5:34 pm.
North Wales Police confirmed the discovery of the woman’s body but have not yet formally identified her. However, Ms. Charles’s family has been informed, and they are being supported by specialist officers during this difficult time.
Chief Inspector Stephen Roberts stated, “The local coroner has also been informed. My thoughts are with Lucy’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
A major search operation was launched after Lucy Charles went missing, involving police, mountain rescue teams, the fire service, and the police helicopter. The police underwater search team conducted extensive searches of the River Dee, fearing that she might have fallen into the river due to heavy rain and flood-swollen conditions.
Recent findings suggest that Ms. Charles may have accidentally fallen into the river on December 22 and was swept away. There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding her disappearance, and it is believed that she did not enter the water deliberately.
Lucy Charles’s family and friends have been clinging to hope for her safe return while bracing themselves for the worst. Her partner, Ian Beech, has expressed his appreciation for the police’s efforts but acknowledges that the river’s current high water levels make search operations challenging.
The River Dee’s water level has risen significantly since Lucy Charles was last seen, with conditions preventing police divers from entering the water. As the river’s water level subsides, authorities hope to gain more clarity about the circumstances of her disappearance.
North Wales Police continue to investigate the case and have urged the public not to approach the dangerous and flooded River Dee. Chief Inspector Stephen Roberts emphasized the difficult time Lucy’s family is going through, especially during the festive period, and assured that the search efforts are ongoing.
Lucy Charles was last seen wearing a navy padded coat, a hi-vis vest, khaki-colored leggings, and black boots. Police are renewing their appeal for information from the public and have cautioned against approaching the River Dee due to its dangerous flooding conditions.
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