A body has been spotted in the sea during the desperate search for missing 16-year-old Athrun, who vanished from West Shore Beach, Llandudno, over the weekend.
Athrun, who is autistic and considered high risk, was last seen near a boating lake and playpark on Saturday, dressed in blue and white patterned swimming shorts. His disappearance prompted a massive multi-agency response, including North Wales Police, the Coastguard, RNLI, and members of the public.
Major Development in the Search Effort
At approximately 7pm on Tuesday (13 May 2025), a potential sighting of a body was made during an air search conducted by the National Police Air Service (NPAS).
This discovery triggered an immediate deployment of rescue resources including:
- An HM Coastguard search and rescue helicopter
- Four lifeboat crews from Rhyl, Conwy, and Llandudno
- Coastguard teams supporting ground and coastal operations
North Wales Police said:
“Whilst work is ongoing to try and locate and recover the body, Athrun’s family have been informed and are being supported by officers. There will continue to be an increased emergency service presence in the area throughout the evening.”
Community Urged to Avoid Speculation
Chief Inspector Trystan Bevan appealed for sensitivity:
“This is an extremely distressing situation for the family. Speculation on social media is not helpful and is not respectful during this incredibly difficult time.”
He added that multi-agency searches would continue into the night and asked the public to avoid gathering on the beach while the recovery operation is ongoing.
Timeline of Events
- Saturday, 11 May – Athrun last seen near West Shore Beach, Llandudno
- Ongoing – Coordinated land, sea, and air search by police and rescue teams
- Tuesday, 13 May (7pm) – NPAS spots body in sea, prompting emergency response
- Wednesday, 14 May – Police confirm body sighting and family notification
How to Help
North Wales Police continue to appeal for any witnesses or information that could assist the investigation. Members of the public with credible information are asked to contact the force via 101 or the North Wales Police website.
