Young snorkellor lost off Portland, Dorset
An major search for a Birmingham-based 17-year-old snorkeller has been called off.
Oscar Montgomery was last seen at approximately 17.00 local time near Church Ope Cove, Portland on Wednesday 27 May. He was wearing a wetsuit, black fins and a black snorkel.
Extensive Search
A significant number of assets were invested in the search and rescue operation which commenced at 17.37.
A spokesman for the Martitime and Coastguard Agency confirmed "that RNLI lifeboats from Weymouth and Swanage, coastguard search and rescue helicopters from St Athan and Lee-on-Solent, a police helicopter, two coastguard fixed-wing search aircraft, rescue boats from the cruise ships Britannia and Queen Mary 2, two Royal Navy warships, a Royal Navy helicopter, coastguard rescue teams from Wyke and Portland Bill and Dorset Police had been involved with the operation. Despite a thorough and comprehensive search nothing has been found.”
The main search was stood down on 29 May 2020. However, a police dive team remained in the area checking and diving the seas around Portland until Thursday 4 June 2020. The local dive businesses helped support these operations.
Despite a thorough and comprehensive search nothing has been found. MCA
The search track of the Weymouth RNLI Lifeboat
Private Search
The family are now considering the possibility of a private search for Oscar Montgomery's remains. A co-ordinated attempt may take place in the next few days that will use a number of assets including licensed drone pilots. It is hoped that the teenager's body will resurface soon, so that it can be recovered and bring closure to the family.