Jay Slater, a 19-year-old from Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire, went missing in a Tenerife national park after attempting to return to his accommodation following a night out.
Jay, who had traveled to the Canary Islands to attend the ‘New Rave Generation’ (NRG) music festival with friends, was last heard from early Monday morning when he called his friend Lucy. His phone, with only 1% battery remaining, indicated he was lost and needed water.
Mother’s Desperate Plea
Jay’s mother, Debbie Slater, arrived in Tenerife shortly after learning of her son’s disappearance. “I’ve only been in Tenerife for about 10 minutes and I’ve just had a quick chat with someone from the British Embassy.
I’m obviously beside myself with worry which is why I’ve flown out here with my eldest son to do anything we can to help,” she said.
Debbie expressed her gratitude for the efforts being made by the local police and emergency services, but emphasized the overwhelming anxiety and fear she felt for her son’s safety.
Last Known Movements
Jay was last seen at the apartment of people he had met during the music festival.
Lucy, his friend, recounted receiving a panicked call from Jay around 8:30 am on Sunday, during which he mentioned his phone’s low battery, his need for water, and his confusion about his location.
His last known location was registered in the ‘Rural de Teno’ park, a remote and mountainous area popular with hikers but far from populated centers.
Search and Rescue Efforts
The local authorities have mobilized extensive resources to locate Jay. The Civil Guard has deployed a specialist Mountain Rescue and Intervention Group (Greim) and a police helicopter to search the area around the village of Masca.
Other emergency services, including firefighters and Civil Protection workers with drones, are also involved in the search. Despite their efforts, no trace of Jay has been found yet.
Community and Family’s Response
The search for Jay has been fraught with challenges, including prank calls to Debbie from individuals falsely claiming to have information about her son’s whereabouts. “Some of the phone calls I’ve been getting have been horrible.
I just don’t know why people would want to do things like this,” she said. Despite these distressing distractions, the family remains focused on finding Jay.
Lucy, who has been leading the search efforts on the ground, has been tirelessly coordinating with local authorities and volunteers.
Hopes and Fears
Lucy shared her fears and hopes in a recent interview. “I’ve never been so worried in my life. I was there all yesterday, a lovely lady messaged me on Facebook and said she had hired a car and would drive me up there,” she said.
The search team has been combing through the rugged terrain, looking in every possible nook and cranny. Jay was last seen wearing a white t-shirt, shorts, and trainers, and carrying a black bag.
Official Statements and Next Steps
A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) stated, “We are supporting the family of a British man who has been reported missing in Spain and are in contact with the local authorities.”
The Civil Guard continues to lead the investigation, with additional resources being deployed as necessary.
The regional emergency coordination center emphasized their commitment to finding Jay, noting that the search began soon after the alert was received and has continued tirelessly.
Conclusion
The disappearance of Jay Slater has cast a shadow over the otherwise picturesque Tenerife national park. As the search continues, the combined efforts of Jay’s family, local authorities, and volunteers offer a glimmer of hope.
Debbie, Lucy, and all those involved are praying for Jay’s safe return, holding onto the belief that he will be found soon.
The situation remains dire, but the determination and solidarity shown by everyone involved underscore the community’s resilience and compassion in the face of such a harrowing ordeal.
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