Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Tuesday 11th March 2025, at 18:55hrs
A body has been recovered from the River Avon in Chippenham by police divers searching for missing 21-year-old Sebastian Sailes.
Wiltshire Police confirmed the discovery, stating that Sebastian’s family have been informed of the “devastating” development. Formal identification is yet to take place.
Sebastian Sailes was last seen walking along Lovers Walk in Chippenham at approximately 11:30 PM on Thursday, February 27th, after leaving the Black Horse Pub. He was believed to be heading south on the Avon Valley Walk towards his home in Notton.
“This development will of course be devastating for Sebastian’s family,” said Wiltshire Police Superintendent James Brain.
“I would like to offer my sincere condolences, and I know that everyone involved in supporting this operation will also be thinking of Sebastian’s family. We will continue to offer our support over the coming days. I would ask that their privacy is respected.”
A large-scale search operation was launched following Sebastian’s disappearance, involving Wiltshire Police, volunteers from Wiltshire Search and Rescue, Lowland Rescue Oxfordshire, specialist support teams from other forces, local businesses, and support charities.
The search focused on a stretch of the River Avon, where police divers ultimately recovered the body.
The police thanked all those who participated in the search for their tireless efforts. The investigation is ongoing, and further updates will be provided as they become available.
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