Police have discovered a body during their search for a young student who went missing after being seen walking alone late at night. Tom Dingle, a 19-year-old from Wigan, was sadly found on Christmas Day, nearly two weeks after he disappeared. The Lancaster University student was last captured on CCTV footage in Appley Bridge, West Lancashire, in the early hours of Saturday, December 13.
In a sorrowful update provided by Lancashire Police, it was revealed that a body, believed to be Tom’s, was found in woodland by a passerby on Christmas Day. The family of Tom has been notified, and authorities have stated that his death is not considered suspicious.
A statement released by the police mentioned, “We have a tragic update to give you in our search for missing student Tom Dingle. At 3.12 pm on Christmas Day, a member of the public discovered a deceased individual in woodland off Lees Lane in Dalton. Although formal identification is pending, we believe it to be 19-year-old Tom. Tom’s family has been informed and is receiving support from trained officers during this difficult time. Our heartfelt condolences are with them. Please respect their privacy as they cope with this heartbreaking news.”
Tom’s university had previously issued an appeal for information regarding his disappearance, expressing deep concern and urging anyone with knowledge to assist the authorities in locating him. The university extended thoughts to Tom, his family, and friends, emphasizing the importance of sharing any relevant information with law enforcement to help ensure his safe return.