Body found in hunt for missing soldier who vanished from army base

Wales Online

5 hours ago

Body found in hunt for missing soldier who vanished from army base
Alex Cairnie's disappearance sparked a major search operation including troops combing the local area
Missing soldier Alex Cairnie
(Image: Jam Press/Wiltshire Police )
A body has been found during the search for a missing serviceman, police have confirmed.
Sergeant Alex Cairnie, aged 30, from the Queen's Royal Hussars regiment, was last spotted around midday on July 6 as he departed Tidworth camp in Wiltshire. His disappearance prompted an extensive search operation, with troops combing the surrounding area alongside military staff, aerial drones and sniffer dogs.
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This evening, July 8, officers revealed that a body had been discovered close to Warren Hill at approximately 6pm. Authorities believe there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death, and relatives have been notified. For our free daily briefing on the biggest issues facing the nation, sign up to the Wales Matters newsletter here
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Wiltshire police issued a statement saying: "We are very sad to report that a body has been found this evening in the search for missing Alex from Perham Down. Alex, 30, was reported missing on Sunday afternoon leaving Tidworth camp and an urgent search has been ongoing since to find him.
"Sadly, at around 6pm this evening, a body was found near Warren Hill. While formal identification has yet to take place, it is believed to be Alex and his next of kin have been informed. Our thoughts are with them at this tragic time. There are not thought to be any suspicious circumstances and a file will be prepared for the coroner," reports the Mirror.
Detective Inspector Mark Kent said: "Our thoughts are very much with the family and loved ones of Alex at this extremely difficult time. I would like to thank all those involved in the search efforts to locate him."
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Following his disappearance on Sunday, posters have been circulated in the local area, with community members being encouraged to inspect outbuildings, sheds and rural areas for any signs of the missing serviceman.
Hundreds have joined the search effort, led by Drew Short from DS Rescue and Recovery. He posted yesterday: "We've got a search and rescue dog along with 3 trucks were more than happy to give up our time and money. We won't stop looking for you until you are found by someone. We're all really hoping you are ok and please reach out to someone."
Sgt Gareth Brooks expressed his concern prior to tonight's statement, describing Alex as a much-loved member of the military.
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He said: "Alex, we need to know that you are safe. Please call 101 and ask to be put through to me directly.
"I'm here to listen and I can give you the time you need to talk things through.
"There are many people who care about you and they need to know that you are OK."
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Amesbury Police previously stated: "We are very concerned for his welfare.
"He is thought to have been wearing a light coloured t-shirt and black/grey trousers.
"If you see him, or know of his whereabouts, please contact us on 999 quoting log 214 of today's date."
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