Police have issued a plea to taxi and delivery drivers to check their dashcam footage as a helicopter continues to hover over Southport in the search for a missing man who struggles to communicate.
Helicopter Searches Southport
A police helicopter spent hours circling areas of Merseyside over the weekend as concern grows for Stephen Molloy, who has been missing since Thursday, June 4. The 6ft tall, slim-built man with dark brown hair was last seen in the Town Lane area of Kew, Southport, around 9.50pm.
Police believe Stephen may still be nearby but could have travelled further, likely on foot or by public transport. He is described as vulnerable and has difficulty communicating. His family has told police he may have taken shelter in dark places where he feels safe.
Appeal to Drivers
Detective Chief Inspector Dave Jones urged anyone who may have seen Stephen to come forward. “We would ask people to check their dashcams to see if Stephen is captured on their footage since he went missing on Thursday evening,” he said.
Taxi drivers, delivery drivers, and others travelling through the area in recent days are particularly asked to review their recordings. Stephen was last seen wearing a black jumper, blue jeans, and carrying a bright yellow bag, though police believe he no longer has the bag.
Possible Shelters and Links to Crosby
Jones added that Stephen may have sought shelter in outhouses, gardens, or farmland. “If you live on or near farmland it could also be possible that he’s sought shelter within your grounds,” he said. Police have conducted land searches on the outskirts of Southport heading into West Lancashire.
Stephen has links to Crosby in Sefton, so he may have travelled there. Police do not believe he has any money, and they ask anyone who offered him a lift or helped him to get in touch.
“Stephen’s family are becoming increasingly concerned about his welfare and want him to get in touch to let them know he is safe,” Jones said. “We will act on any information provided so please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you see him or you think you may have any information that could assist our ongoing enquiries.”
Anyone who sees Stephen is asked to call 999 immediately.
