A major search operation for a missing man believed to have entered the River Tyne at Wylam is now in its third day. Police believe 22-year-old Liam entered the water after he was last seen heading towards Wylam from Wylam Bridge.
Report and search launch
Northumbria Police received a report on Saturday afternoon (August 15) concerning Liam's welfare. He had last been seen at about 12:20am that day after spending the night with friends. A large search effort was launched involving members of the North of Tyne Mountain Rescue Team, while police officers continue to make enquiries.
Before Liam was last seen, officers received a report of a disturbance at a nearby premises, followed by a crash on the bridge involving a vehicle and a group of pedestrians. A man and a woman, both in their 20s, sustained serious injuries, which are not believed to be life-threatening.
Arrests and investigation
Two people in the vehicle fled the scene before police arrived. Two men, aged 22 and 23, were arrested in connection with the incident and have been released on bail pending further enquiries.
The investigation is said to remain at an early stage. Police have confirmed that Liam was on the bridge when the collision took place but was not in the vehicle, and there are no reports suggesting he was injured. He is known to have left the scene afterwards, and his next of kin are being supported.
Appeal for information
Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Robson, of Northumbria Police, said: "Our searches for Liam continue but due to a range of factors, we are unable to provide a timescale for how long we will be searching in the area."
She added: "We will continue to support his family, and we would ask the public to avoid speculation both online and in the community. We would like to thank our colleagues from North of Tyne Mountain and Northumberland National Park Mountain Rescue teams for their continued support and all those who have helped with the searches so far."
Anyone with information is asked to send a direct message to police on social media, or use the live chat and report forms on the website. Those unable to do so are asked to call 101 and quote reference number NP-20260815-0424.
