Thames Valley Police have launched an urgent appeal to locate 15-year-old Cody, who vanished after being spotted at a Nisa Local store on the A413 in Aylesbury on Tuesday evening.
The Oxford teenager was last seen shortly before 6pm on Tuesday, 19 August, at the convenience store on the busy A-road, sparking immediate concerns for his welfare amongst police and family members.
Officers have released a detailed description of the missing boy, who is white, of slim build, with brown hair, and was wearing distinctive all-black clothing at the time of his disappearance.
We’re concerned for Cody’s welfare, and I would ask anybody who knows of his whereabouts to please contact Thames Valley Police,” said PC Lauren Nash, the investigating officer leading the search.
The teenager was last seen wearing a black hoodie, black jogging bottoms and black sliders when he visited the shop on Tuesday evening, according to the police appeal.
Cody, who is from Oxford, is known to frequent several areas across the Thames Valley region, including the Oxford neighbourhoods of Littlemore, Rose Hill and Cowley.
Police have confirmed that the missing teenager also has connections to both Oxford city centre and Aylesbury, widening the potential search area for officers and volunteers.
The force spokesperson revealed yesterday that the initial sighting occurred at approximately 5.55pm, providing a crucial timeline for investigators working to trace Cody’s movements.
Thames Valley Police have activated their comprehensive missing persons protocol, which includes searching relevant addresses, examining CCTV footage, and coordinating with partner agencies across the region.
“If you see him please call 999 ref 43250424462, or if you have info about where he might be please share our appeal,” the force urged in their official statement.
The disappearance has prompted Thames Valley Police to utilise their dedicated missing persons portal, allowing members of the public to submit information directly to investigating officers.
PC Nash emphasised the importance of public assistance in locating the teenager, stating that even the smallest piece of information could prove vital to the investigation.
The force has deployed specialist search teams and is working closely with British Transport Police to monitor railway stations in both Oxford and Aylesbury.
Officers are particularly focusing their search efforts on the areas Cody is known to frequent, with increased patrols in Littlemore, Rose Hill and Cowley.
The timing of Cody’s disappearance, during the evening rush hour on a major A-road, means investigators are hopeful that commuters or shoppers may have spotted him.
Thames Valley Police confirmed they are reviewing CCTV footage from the Nisa Local store and surrounding businesses along the A413 corridor.
The force has also contacted the Missing People charity, which provides specialist support to families during such distressing times and can assist with wider publicity efforts.
According to police procedures, officers will have conducted thorough searches of Cody’s home address and any locations he regularly visits, looking for clues about his whereabouts.
The investigation team is also examining Cody’s digital footprint, including social media activity and mobile phone data, to help trace his movements after leaving the shop.
Thames Valley Police utilise a risk assessment system for missing persons cases, with factors such as age, vulnerability and circumstances determining the level of response.
Given Cody’s age of 15, the case has been prioritised with significant resources allocated to ensure his safe return as quickly as possible.
The force’s missing persons unit works closely with schools, youth services and local authorities to gather intelligence and coordinate search efforts effectively.
Historical data from Thames Valley Police shows that most missing teenagers are found within 48 hours, though officers stress the importance of immediate action in every case.
The region has seen several high-profile missing persons cases in recent years, with the force developing enhanced protocols and search strategies based on lessons learned.
Officers are also liaising with neighbouring police forces, including Hertfordshire and Northamptonshire, in case Cody has travelled outside the Thames Valley area.
The public response to missing persons appeals through social media has become increasingly vital, with Thames Valley Police maintaining active Facebook and Twitter accounts for rapid information sharing.
Anyone with information about Cody’s whereabouts is urged to contact Thames Valley Police immediately via 999, quoting reference number 43250424462.
Members of the public can also submit information through the force’s online portal or by calling 101 for non-urgent information that might assist the investigation.
The search for Cody continues as darkness falls, with officers remaining on high alert throughout the night and maintaining their urgent appeal for public assistance.
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