Missing British Teen Alex Batty Found Alive After Six Years
In a stunning breakthrough, Alex Batty, the British boy who vanished six years ago, has been found alive and well near Toulouse, France. The 17-year-old from Oldham, Greater Manchester, disappeared aged 11 while travelling with family in southern Spain back in October 2017.
Family Trip Ends in Mystery
Alex was with his mother, Melanie Batty, 38, and grandfather David Batty, 59, who did not have parental guardianship. The trio never returned from their planned two-week Marbella trip, sparking a major police inquiry.
Alex’s grandmother and official guardian, Susan Caruana, had previously raised concerns about the family’s rejection of mainstream schooling and suggested they may have adopted an “alternative lifestyle” somewhere else.
Chance Encounter Leads to Discovery
Alex was spotted by Fabien Accidini, a chiropractic student and part-time medicine delivery driver, in Revel, east of Toulouse. Fabien described the teen as tall and blond, carrying a skateboard and flashlight in the early hours of Wednesday.
“I gave him a lift, and over a three-hour chat, I found out who he really was,” said Accidini.
French prosecutors have confirmed Alex’s identity. Investigators suspect he escaped from a rural community in the Pyrenees foothills. He is currently in social services care, cooperating with police, and awaiting contact from his family.
Authorities Coordinating for Safe Return
The French gendarmerie stated: “We can confirm the young man found is Alex Batty. He is well and providing information.” They are working closely with Greater Manchester Police, who remain in touch with Alex’s relatives in England.
GMP stress the investigation is ongoing and that safeguarding measures are in place. Meanwhile, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is offering support to Alex in France and liaising with local officials.
After six years, Alex Batty’s miraculous discovery offers hope and closure in a case that gripped the UK. More updates are expected as authorities continue their inquiries.
