A desperate international search is underway for a 27-year-old British woman who vanished without trace from a popular Tenerife hotel, leaving family and authorities deeply concerned for her safety.
Disappearance in Paradise
Jay Slater, from Oswaldtwistle in Lancashire, was last seen at the Papagayo Arena hotel in the bustling resort of Playa de las Americas. The young apprentice bricklayer had travelled to the Canary Islands with friends for a holiday when she mysteriously disappeared on Monday morning.
Local police and emergency services have launched a massive search operation, combing the popular tourist area and surrounding regions. The Guardia Civil confirmed they are treating the disappearance as high priority given the concerning circumstances.
Family's Anguish
Jay's devastated mother, Debbie Duncan, has flown to Tenerife to join the search efforts. In an emotional appeal, she described her daughter as "bubbly, funny and kind-hearted" and expressed her growing fear as each hour passes without contact.
"We're absolutely sick with worry," she told reporters. "This is completely out of character for Jay. She was having a wonderful holiday with friends and then just vanished. We're pleading with anyone who might have seen her or knows anything to come forward."
Last Known Movements
According to friends who were holidaying with Jay, she was last seen in the early hours of Monday morning. The group had been enjoying an evening out before returning to their accommodation. When friends woke later that morning, Jay was gone, along with her passport and phone.
Spanish authorities have confirmed they are reviewing CCTV footage from the hotel and surrounding areas in hopes of tracing Jay's final movements. Local business owners have been shown photographs of the missing woman in case she visited their establishments.
International Search Effort
The Foreign Office has confirmed they are providing support to Jay's family and working closely with Spanish authorities. A spokesperson stated: "We are assisting the family of a British woman reported missing in Spain and are in contact with the local authorities."
Search teams have expanded their operation beyond the immediate hotel area, with particular focus on:
- Coastal paths and beaches
- Nearby bars and entertainment venues
- Transport hubs including bus stations and taxi ranks
- Hiking trails in the surrounding hills
Local residents and holidaymakers have joined the effort, distributing flyers and sharing appeals on social media platforms. The hashtag #FindJaySlater has been trending across the UK and Spain as the public rallies to help.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Guardia Civil in Tenerife or Crimestoppers anonymously. The search continues as night falls on the island, with Jay's family praying for her safe return.
