The grandfather of a 21-year-old man who vanished on New Year's Day has made a desperate public appeal, urging his grandson to come home as a major search operation continues in County Tyrone.
Family's Heartfelt Appeal Amid Freezing Conditions
Taylor Stewart was last seen in the Church Heights area of Cookstown at approximately 5.30am on January 1. His grandfather, Mitchell Crooks, issued a statement shared by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), expressing the family's profound worry and directly appealing to Taylor.
Mr Crooks highlighted the danger posed by the recent severe cold weather and reminded Taylor of a promise he had made. "We just want Taylor to come home. The whole family is so worried about him, especially with the weather being so bad over the last few days," he said. "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 complex and wide-ranging search for the missing young man. On Friday, officers released CCTV footage in an effort to gather clues about his whereabouts. The search effort involves multiple specialist teams working in coordination with a Police Search Advisor (POLSA).
K9 Search and Rescue NI has been using canine teams to scan the local area. Their efforts were supplemented on Sunday by Lough Neagh Search and Rescue's Swift Water Rescue Team, who were brought in to assist with searches across waterways and challenging terrain.
A spokesperson for the search teams stated: "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."
Public Urged to Assist Safely
Superintendent Peter Stevenson of the PSNI thanked the public for their assistance so far but issued a safety warning due to the treacherous conditions. "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," he said.
He urged anyone wishing to help to check with local officers first and reiterated the appeal for information. "Even a seemingly insignificant piece of information could help," Superintendent Stevenson added.
Taylor Stewart is described as approximately 5ft 8in 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/brown boots.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1108 of 01/01/26. In an emergency, call 999. Information can also be submitted anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
