Plymouth Sound search ends without finding missing person

An emergency response was launched yesterday afternoon (June 27) in Plymouth Sound and on Plymouth Hoe following reports of a person in difficulty in the water.

The incident began shortly before 1.30pm, prompting a massive turnout of emergency services and attracting concerned onlookers. 

ABOVE: HM Coastguard searches over Mount Batten

Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed the situation, stating: “Emergency services are currently in the area of Plymouth Hoe following concern for a person in the water. We are assisting our Coastguard and RNLI colleagues who are dealing with this incident.”

The distress call, received by HM Coastguard just before 1.30pm, triggered an immediate and comprehensive response.

A search and rescue helicopter was deployed, circling the Hoe and Plymouth Sound, while HM Coastguard crews remained on standby along the shore. 

ABOVE: HM Coastguard carries out the search

The operation also saw active participation from the Plymouth Coastguard Rescue Team and Plymouth RNLI lifeboats.

Local vessels were enlisted to aid in the search efforts, and a Mayday relay was broadcast to alert other ships in the vicinity. 

ABOVE: Police boats assist

Ambulance crews were on the scene, prepared to provide medical assistance if necessary.

Despite the extensive search, which continued into the evening, no individual was found. The Moorlander contacted HM Coastguard on the morning of June 28 for an update. 

They confirmed: “The area was comprehensively searched and nothing was found.”