A TEENAGER from Emersons Green has died after going missing from a beach while on holiday.
The 16-year-old, named only as Athrun by North Wales police, was last seen alive on the afternoon of May 10 at West Shore Beach in Llandudno, wearing his swimming shorts.
A major search and rescue operation was launched to find him, with police making a public appeal for visitors to the beach to check photos they had taken for evidence of his movements.
The operation continued for four days until a body was found on the evening of May 14 in the water off West Shore.
Police confirmed the following day that the body was that of Athrun, who had autism and was known to many local families from his time at Blackhorse Primary School.
Chief Inspector Trystan Bevan said: “Our thoughts are very much with Athrun’s family, who wish to thank all agencies and members of the public for their overwhelming support with the search, and for not giving up on his recovery.
“This is not the outcome anyone hoped for, but we hope it can now provide some answers for Athrun’s family.”
Police are working with the local coroner on an investigation into his death.
Athrun was remembered by residents in a post on Emersons Green Village Hall’s Facebook page, where staff said: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Athrun, who lived in Emersons Green and sadly passed away in Wales.”
People spoke of their heartbreak and devastation at the news, and shared memories of Athrun, who was described as “such a happy boy”.
One parent said: “Have lovely memories of Athrun at school and birthday parties.”
Another said: “Athrun always had a smile on his face and was full of energy.”