Despite an exhaustive search operation involving dogs, drones, and a helicopter, no trace of 19-year-old Jay Slater has been found. Footage released by local authorities shows helicopters flying over the area while firefighters, volunteers, and police combed the ground.
Jay was last heard from when he called a friend shortly before 9:00 a.m. on Monday, following his attendance at the NRG dance music festival in Tenerife.
Jay’s last known location was on a mountain road in the rural Deto National Park, northwest of the island. He had traveled to a rental holiday property in Masca with two older friends before attempting a 10-hour trek back to his hotel.
According to the owner of the Airbnb, Jay inquired about a local bus route before setting off on a path towards a mountain.
He left the remote property, situated in a deep ravine, and called his friend Lucy Law, stating he was stranded and dehydrated.
Jay, from Lancashire, has not been seen or heard from since. The Masca Ravine, which is about 3 miles long and 2,000 feet deep, has a hiking trail leading from the hills down to the sea.
Jay’s family and friends are reportedly devastated as they struggle to find answers.
Authorities have utilized a range of resources in their search, including helicopters, drones, dogs, and ground personnel. The rugged terrain and high temperatures have made the search particularly challenging.
Investigators are looking into Jay’s background and the events leading up to his disappearance. Reports indicate he left the party in a car with two men, which has raised questions about his final movements.
The investigation is focusing on multiple hypotheses, including whether he became lost and succumbed to the elements or if there are other factors at play.
Witnesses and public information are crucial in these investigations, but speculation and rumors on social media have complicated efforts. A Facebook group dedicated to the search has attracted nearly half a million members, with posts being suspended due to conspiracy theories.
Jay’s friends and family, described as drained beyond words, are still holding out hope for his safe return.
