Two 20-year-olds held over disappearance of Thomas Jones, 18, last seen on Wednesday

A second man has been arrested on suspicion of murder as police continue to search for a university student who went missing five days ago.

Thomas Jones, 18, was last seen in the early hours of 19 September close to the River Severn in Worcester. Two 20-year-old men are now in police custody after a further arrest on Sunday evening, West Mercia police said.

Jones is thought to have crossed the Sabrina footbridge before walking on to the footpath along the top of the flood defences on Hylton Road towards the village of Hallow just before 3.50am.

Members of the public have been asked to stay away from the search area where trained divers and officers are conducting a “full and thorough search”.

Supt Damian Pettit said: “The investigating team have been carrying out extensive inquiries and searches since Thomas was reported missing on Wednesday – officers are working around the clock to try to locate Thomas.

“The community of Worcester has really pulled together and I would like to thank everyone who has come forward with information, as well as to the hundreds of volunteers who have been supporting the investigation.

“We are continuing the investigation with a number of lines of inquiry and will keep the community updated. Thomas’s family has been made aware of the updates and they are being supported by specially trained officers.”

Pettit added: “I understand today’s update may have an impact on the local community and there will be officers in the local area over the coming days to offer reassurance to local residents.



“Searches will be continuing and we kindly ask that the public stay away from the search area. We are working with the university to ensure that staff, students and all affected by Thomas’s disappearance are receiving the support they need.”