Humberside Police have launched an extensive and urgent search operation for two men who are feared to have entered a dangerous waterway after fleeing from a traffic incident.
Chase Ends in Crash and Disappearance
The chain of events began on the evening of Friday, December 5, when patrol officers attempted to pull over a vehicle for a routine check due to a defective rear light. The driver failed to comply, leading to a short police pursuit.
The vehicle was followed to Charlotte Street, where it collided with a wall at approximately 8.25pm. Two male occupants then fled the scene on foot. It is believed they entered the nearby River Hull just five minutes later, at around 8.30pm.
Major Multi-Agency Search Underway
Detective Inspector Andy Crawforth, who is leading the investigation, stated that a search was launched immediately after receiving reports of the men entering the water. He expressed that officers are 'extremely concerned for their welfare'.
The search effort is substantial and involves multiple specialist teams:
- Humberside Police patrol officers
- The Coastguard
- Humberside Fire and Rescue Service
- The force's specialist Underwater Search Team
Local residents reported seeing police helicopter searchlights scanning the river on Friday night as part of the operation.
Appeal for Information on Dangerous River
The River Hull is known for its hazardous conditions, which include strong tidal currents, cold water, and unpredictable shifting sandbanks and mudbanks, making the search particularly challenging and heightening concerns for the men's safety.
Detective Inspector Crawforth has made a direct appeal to the public for assistance. He urged anyone with information to come forward, especially those who might know the identities of the men or witnessed someone going missing on Friday evening.
He also asked for any relevant CCTV, doorbell camera footage, or witnesses who were in the Charlotte Street area at the time to contact police. The public can provide information by calling the non-emergency number 101 and quoting log reference 461 of 5 December.
The police have warned that residents can expect to see an increased police presence in and around the area over the weekend as the search and enquiries continue.
