The search for missing British teenager Jay Slater has intensified as volunteers, firefighters, and mountain experts joined Spanish police in a massive coordinated effort today. The 19-year-old from Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire, vanished on June 17 after a night out with friends in Tenerife.

The Guardia Civil had earlier appealed for volunteer firefighters and experts in rugged terrain to assist in a “busqueda masiva,” or massive search. This search effort, beginning at 9 am, will focus on the steep and rocky area near Masca, where Jay was last seen. The terrain includes ravines, trails, and paths, all of which will be combed thoroughly.

Last Known Movements

Jay was last seen after attending the three-day NRG music festival. Following the event, he returned to the Casa Abuela Tina Airbnb in Masca with two men he met at the festival. The villa owner reported seeing him at a bus stop at around 8 am. When he learned the next bus wasn’t until 10 am, he decided to set off on foot.

At approximately 8:50 am, Jay called his friend Lucy Mae Law, 18, stating he was “lost in the mountains, with no water, one per cent battery” and had injured his leg on a cactus. This was the last known communication from Jay.

Search Efforts

The search today is one of the most extensive yet, covering the Masca Gorge, around 3,000 feet above sea level. This area has been the focus of searches involving drones, dogs, and helicopters since Jay was reported missing. Despite these efforts, no trace of Jay has been found.

The search is being coordinated from the Mirador de la Cruz de Hilda restaurant, aiming to retrace Jay’s steps and explore new areas that have not been previously covered.

Family and Community Involvement

Jay’s disappearance has mobilized an army of volunteers. His family, including his mother Debbie Duncan, have been active in the search and fundraising efforts. A GoFundMe page set up to support the search efforts has surpassed £40,000. Debbie Duncan expressed her gratitude for the support, stating that the funds would be used to cover mountain rescue costs, accommodation, and food expenses.

Public Response and Social Media

The case has garnered significant public interest, with internet sleuths and true crime enthusiasts joining the search. Notably, TikTok sleuth Paul Arnott has been actively involved, posting updates and assisting in the search. However, the influx of theories and speculations on social media has been criticized by authorities for spreading misinformation.

Ongoing Investigations

Authorities have shifted some of their focus to the caves near Los Carrizales, an area within the Masca valley not previously searched. They have also been investigating sightings of Jay in various locations, including a bar in Puerto de Santiago.

Spanish police have released footage showing officers navigating rough terrain and conducting aerial inspections. Despite the challenges, they remain committed to continuing the search.

Family’s Appeal

Jay’s family continues to hold onto hope. His mother, Debbie Duncan, has been vocal about their determination to find him, thanking volunteers and supporters for their unwavering assistance.

“First, I would like to thank everyone for your support, kind messages, and good wishes,” Debbie wrote on GoFundMe. It’s difficult to wrap our heads around what is happening right now, but we are not losing hope that we will find Jay and return home together.

As the search enters its 13th day, the family, volunteers, and authorities continue their exhaustive efforts to find Jay Slater and bring him home safely.