The search for a Wicklow teenager who has been missing since last weekend resumed in Arklow early this morning.
More than 200 people from the local community have gathered to search for James Sheehan (18), who was last seen early on Sunday morning after leaving Sally O’Brien’s nightclub.
Members of the Garda Water Unit, the River Boyne Rescue and the Civil Defence are assisting in the search today.
Inspector Mary Aldridge said the search has been expanded to include the wooded Glenart area, about 5km west of Arklow in their search.
Members of a garda sub aqua unit are carrying out under water searches along the Avoca River through the town.
Mr Sheehan is described as 189cm (6ft 2in) tall and of athletic build, with tightly cut red hair. He was wearing a light grey Henley hoodie with a neon orange lining, blue jeans and tan Kickers shoes.
Inspector Aldridge said: “There was some activity on his phone up until 5.10am. If anyone saw any activity between 2.50am and 5.10am, or indeed any time since, then please get in contact with the Garda.”
Gardaí have advised the local community that some areas could pose a safety risk, such as the reed beds along the Avoca River. These places will be searched by trained personnel.
Yesterday Mr Sheehan's mother Catherine Sheehan said she did not know whether reports that her son was bundled into a car by two men after a scuffle at the estate were true. Gardaí had no information of the events being linked at this point.
Local Fianna Fáil councillor Pat Fitzgerald said today that the whole Arklow community is dedicated to the search for the missing man.
“There’s a huge amount of people up since 7am this morning, out searching around the beaches and hinterland for James. They are weary and have been out searching since late last night but they are not giving up hope,” he said.
“I’ve never seen such a response. James is a very popular young man and the Sheehan family are well regarded in the town.”
Anyone with information should contact Arklow Garda station on 0402-32304, the Garda confidential line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.
