Police searching for missing university student Sebastian Sailes, 21, have discovered the body of an elderly man in the River Avon. However, authorities have confirmed that the body is not that of the missing student, and the search for Sebastian remains ongoing.
Discovery of the Body
The body, believed to be that of a man in his 70s, was found near Westmead Open Space earlier today. Avon and Somerset Police have identified the man and notified his next of kin. Officers have stated that there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.
A spokesperson for Wiltshire Police confirmed the discovery: “We can confirm that this is not missing man Sebastian Sailes, aged 21 years, for whom an extensive search operation is continuing. The body has been identified and his next of kin have been informed. Our thoughts are with them at this sad time.”
Ongoing Search for Sebastian Sailes
Sebastian Sailes was last seen leaving the Black Horse Pub in Chippenham around 11:30 PM on Thursday, February 28. CCTV footage later captured him walking towards Lovers Walk, and police now believe he traveled south along Avon Valley Walk towards his home in Notton.
Authorities are urging local residents and drivers in the Chippenham and Rowden Hill areas to check any CCTV, Ring doorbell, or dashcam footage from that night. Wildlife camera owners near the river have also been asked to assist in the search.
Sebastian is described as:
- Age: 21
- Height: 5ft 10ins
- Build: Slim
- Hair: Blonde/brown with a long fringe
- Last seen wearing: Grey jumper, blue jeans, a beige fur-lined jacket, and white Adidas trainers
Urgent Appeal for Information
Chief Inspector Ben Huggins of Wiltshire Police emphasized the urgency of the search: “Sebastian has now been missing since late Thursday evening, and we and his family are extremely worried about him. Finding him is a Force priority, and we are utilizing extensive resources to locate him, including exploring different routes he may have taken.”
Authorities have also urged members of the public to avoid flying drones in the search areas, as volunteers and rescue teams are actively scouring different locations.
Sebastian’s family is being supported by specialist officers as the search continues. Anyone who may have seen Sebastian or has information on his whereabouts is urged to call 999, quoting log 141 of February 28.
