The grandfather of a young man who disappeared in the early hours of New Year's Day has made a desperate public appeal, urging him to make contact and come home safely.
Family's Desperate Appeal Amid Freezing Conditions
Taylor Stewart, aged 21, was last seen in the Church Heights area of Cookstown, County Tyrone, at approximately 5.30am on Thursday, 1 January. His grandfather, Mitchell Crooks, has spoken out through a statement released by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), expressing the family's profound worry.
Mr Crooks highlighted the particular danger posed by the recent severe cold weather affecting the UK. He also made a personal appeal, reminding Taylor of a promise to help with some car trouble. "We just want Taylor to come home," Mr Crooks said. "The whole family is so worried about him, especially with the weather being so bad over the last few days. Please Taylor, just let us know that you are safe, you promised to help me with a few issues with my car so I need you home to help, please get in contact."
Extensive Search Operation Underway
Police have launched a major search effort, supported by specialist voluntary teams. On Friday, officers released CCTV footage of Taylor in a bid to gather more information on his whereabouts. The search has involved K9 Search and Rescue NI, whose canine teams have been scanning the local area.
A spokesperson for the search group stated on Sunday: "Searches are ongoing across a number of areas, and every effort is being made to help bring Taylor home. We are once again appealing to local residents to check any outbuildings, sheds, garages, or unused properties on their land. Even the smallest piece of information could be significant."
The operation was bolstered on Sunday by the Swift Water Rescue Team from Lough Neagh Search and Rescue, who assisted with searches across local waterways and challenging terrain.
Public Urged to Assist Safely
Superintendent Peter Stevenson of the PSNI thanked the public for their assistance but cautioned against untrained individuals taking risks. "We know that a young man being missing in such cold conditions is causing real concern amongst local people, and we are really grateful that so many people want to help us," he said.
"This is a complex search, covering a lot of ground. We do not want the public to put themselves or others at risk, particularly when snow and ice are posing safety issues to even our experienced teams. Please, check in with local officers for advice before you commence any search of your own."
Taylor is described as being around 5 feet 8 inches tall, of medium build, with dark hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing blue jeans with a brown belt, a long-sleeved white shirt with a red square pattern, and green or brown boots.
The police continue to urge anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to come forward immediately. They are particularly keen to hear from anyone who was in the Church Heights area around the time Taylor vanished, or who may have seen him since.
Anyone with information should contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1108 of 01/01/26. In an emergency, call 999. Information can also be submitted online via the PSNI's non-emergency reporting form or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
