A close friend of missing teenager Jay Slater has hit back after being targeted with horrific death threats online. The 19-year-old from Lancashire vanished during a holiday in Tenerife, sparking an international search effort.
The pal, who wished to remain anonymous, revealed they've been bombarded with abusive messages from trolls accusing them of involvement in Slater's disappearance. "It's been absolutely vile," they told reporters. "People are making wild accusations without knowing any facts."
Search Enters Critical Phase
Spanish authorities have been combing rugged mountainous terrain near Masca village where Slater was last seen on June 17. Specialist search teams including sniffer dogs and helicopters have been deployed as concerns grow over the challenging conditions.
Slater's devastated mother Debbie Duncan flew to Tenerife to assist with the search. "We're clinging to hope," she said during an emotional press conference. "Jay's a strong lad but this terrain is treacherous."
Social Media Frenzy
The case has triggered a social media storm, with amateur sleuths spreading conspiracy theories. Police have urged the public to avoid speculation that could hinder the investigation.
Forensic experts warn that online harassment of those connected to missing persons cases is becoming increasingly common. "Keyboard warriors think they're helping but often cause real harm," said Dr. Helen Carter, a criminology lecturer at Manchester University.
The friend at the center of the abuse storm added: "All we care about is finding Jay. These cruel messages are just distracting from what really matters."
