In a heartbreaking development, 26-year-old West Yorkshire Police officer Charlie Mitchell, who was reported missing from his home in Leeds on Saturday night, has been found dead. The young officer’s body was discovered at St Aidan’s Nature Reserve, Leeds, marking a devastating turn in what was initially a welfare search.
Officer Charlie Mitchell Went Missing from Leeds Home
Charlie Mitchell, who served as a patrol officer based in Halifax, was off duty when he went missing. Concerns about his welfare were raised late Saturday night, prompting a swift search operation by West Yorkshire Police. The search efforts were concentrated around the St Aidan’s Nature Reserve, where he was ultimately found.
Body Found at St Aidan’s Nature Reserve
On Sunday at approximately 5:30 PM, officers located Charlie Mitchell’s body during their ongoing search of the nature reserve. Authorities have confirmed that there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death. The Coroner’s Office has been informed and will be handling the next steps of the inquiry.
Tributes and Condolences from West Yorkshire Police
Assistant Chief Constable Robert McCoubrey released a heartfelt statement following the confirmation of Mitchell’s death. He said:
“Charlie’s death in these circumstances is absolutely tragic, and we offer our sincere condolences to his family and will be continuing to give them all the support we can at this very difficult time.”
He also highlighted the impact of the loss within the police force:
“His death has also come as a terrible shock to his colleagues in Calderdale District and the wider West Yorkshire Police family and we will be making sure that all necessary support is in place for everyone who worked with him or knew him.”
Support for Colleagues and Community
The West Yorkshire Police have assured that mental health and grief support services are being offered to Mitchell’s coworkers and any others affected by this tragic incident. The force emphasized its commitment to caring for the well-being of its officers during such painful circumstances.