After Cole Cooper disappeared a large-scale search was launched, involving helicopters, divers, digital experts, and hundreds of police officers – but his mum is convinced there was ‘third party’ involvement
Police have set the record straight after a grieving mother was convinced a “third party” was involved in her son’s death.
Cole Cooper, 19, was discovered dead in a wooded area near Falkirk earlier this month following a missing persons inquiry. He was last seen on CCTV in May after leaving a house party, but police later revealed a former school friend had spoken to Cole a few days later nearby.
After Cole’s disappearance was reported on May 9, a large-scale search was launched, involving helicopters, divers, digital experts, and hundreds of police officers. A disturbing video emerged showing the teenager in the Longcroft area of the town, where he was seen “running” and looking “spooked,” according to reports.
The teenager’s body was found a mere 15-minute walk from where he was last confirmed to have been seen. Since then, Police Scotland have continued their investigation. However, it is understood Cole’s loved ones still have not been told when his body will be released to allow them to lay him to rest.
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Police previously said 400 residents were spoken to during door-to-door enquires and more than 2,000 hours of CCTV footage was collected. They said they were working hard to establish the full circumstances around the young man’s passing.
Cole’s grieving mum Wendy Stewart, 42, has revealed her son had “various arguments” in the days and hours before he disappeared. She said: “He was only 19, he should never have been taken. I am never going to see him again. I never got a chance to give him a last cuddle and hold his hand.
“Someone has taken that away from me far too soon. Whether it be intentionally or unintentionally, I do believe there has been some involvement by a third party and the result is the death of Cole.”
Wendy, speaking to Sky News in an emotional interview, said her family themselves have vowed to “get justice”. Asked what this means, the mum added: “Finding the culprit and getting justice that way. Finding the person that is responsible for the death of my child.”
Police Scotland have now hit back at at Wendy’s claims. Detective Chief Inspector Bob Williamson said: “We are carrying out significant enquiries into Cole’s death, however, at this time there is no evidence of any third-party involvement. It is vital that we establish the full circumstances leading up to Cole’s death so that we can provide some answers to his family.
“The thoughts of everyone involved in this investigation are very much with his family and friends and officers will continue to offer them support and keep them informed as our enquiries progress.”