Urgent hunt on for missing 17-year-old Russel Burrdett-Deakin in Kent
Community urged to help search for Russel
Police are stepping up efforts to find Russel Burrdett-Deakin, who vanished from his Maidstone home near Sutton Road on the evening of September 6. Officers are calling on local residents to check gardens, sheds, and outbuildings. Visitors to popular spots like Mote Park and Whatman Park should also be extra vigilant.
Extensive search across Maidstone underway
Since Russel’s disappearance at around 6.30pm, police have scoured the area — combing through River Medway banks, parks, footpaths, and public transport hubs. Despite these exhaustive efforts, Russel’s whereabouts remain unknown.
What Russel looks like – and a plea from police
Detective Chief Inspector Julia Pexton, leading the investigation, urged the community for support:
“We are now appealing to Maidstone residents to also help where possible. It’s possible Russel is taking refuge in someone’s garden or outbuilding, so please just take a few minutes to make some checks.”
Russel is described as slim, about 5’8” tall at the time he went missing, and he may look scruffy. There is also a chance he has dyed his hair black since going missing.
DCI Pexton added:
“If anyone sees him, even if you think it’s a slim chance, please report it immediately.”
How you can help – and a message to Russel
- Check your garden sheds, outbuildings, and property thoroughly.
- Keep an eye out at local parks and public spaces.
- Review home security cameras or doorbell footage from the night of September 6.
- Think back if you were near Sutton Road or Park Wood and remember seeing anyone who matches Russel’s description or appeared distressed.
DCI Pexton had a personal message:
“Russel, if you’re reading this, you are not in any trouble. Please get in touch or approach someone you trust. We want to help you.”
