In a concerning development, three teenage friends have been reported missing in the vicinity of Southampton, Hampshire. Shelley, 14, Roxanna, 13, and Jack, 15, have not been seen for several days, prompting local authorities to issue a public appeal for information.
The disappearances occurred in different locations near Southampton, the largest city in Hampshire. Shelley was last seen in Eastleigh, a town between Southampton and Winchester, on 17 September 2024. Jack was also last spotted in Eastleigh on 22 September 2024, while Roxanna was last seen at her home in Bursledon, a village in Hampshire, on 21 September 2024.
Hampshire Constabulary, the territorial police force responsible for policing Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, has expressed growing concern for the teenagers' welfare. Authorities believe the trio may have traveled to London, the capital and largest city of England and the United Kingdom.
A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary stated, "We've been carrying out a number of enquiries since they went missing, but are now turning to the community for help. We're growing increasingly concerned for their welfare and would urge anyone who has seen them since they went missing, or anyone who might know where they are now to contact us immediately."
The police have provided detailed descriptions of the missing teenagers:
- Shelley: White, 5ft 3in to 5ft 5in, with long light brown hair usually worn in a bun. Last seen wearing black leggings, a blue t-shirt, and a white puffer gilet, carrying a black handbag.
- Roxanna: White, 5ft 3in to 5ft 5in, average build with blue eyes and long brown hair. Last seen wearing a grey hoodie, a black puffer jacket, and black trainers.
- Jack: White, 5ft 9in, slim build with dark ginger hair that is long on top. Last seen wearing a white t-shirt, light blue cargo trousers, white trainers, a black coat, and carrying a black bag.
This case highlights the significant issue of missing persons in the UK. In 2020, approximately 150,000 people were reported missing in England and Wales. While the majority of missing person cases are resolved within 24 hours, cases involving children and teenagers account for a substantial proportion of reports.
The UK has implemented various measures to address missing persons cases, including a national database called the Missing Persons Bureau and a Child Rescue Alert system for high-risk missing children cases. Social media has also become an essential tool in locating missing persons, allowing for rapid dissemination of information and appeals.
The charity Missing People provides crucial support to missing children and adults in the UK, working closely with law enforcement agencies. The UK government has also established a cross-government missing children and adults strategy to coordinate efforts in addressing this issue.
As the search for Shelley, Roxanna, and Jack continues, authorities urge anyone with information to come forward. The public's assistance is vital in such cases, as community involvement can significantly increase the chances of locating missing individuals.
"We've been carrying out a number of enquiries since they went missing, but are now turning to the community for help. We're growing increasingly concerned for their welfare and would urge anyone who has seen them since they went missing, or anyone who might know where they are now to contact us immediately."
The disappearance of these three teenagers serves as a reminder of the importance of community vigilance and the need for prompt reporting of any relevant information to authorities. As the investigation continues, the hope remains that Shelley, Roxanna, and Jack will be found safe and reunited with their families soon.