The “devastated” family of a teenager who disappeared more than a month ago have vowed to never give up on their “fight for truth”.
Cole Cooper, 19, was reported missing on 9 May, sparking a major Police Scotland search that involved air support and the force’s dive and marine unit.
The teenager had earlier been captured on CCTV at about 6am on 4 May after leaving a house party in the Longcroft area, near Falkirk.
He was last spotted in the same village by an old school friend at about 8.45pm on 7 May.
As part of the police investigation, almost 400 residents were spoken to during door-to-door enquires and more than 2,000 hours of CCTV footage was collected.
In an update on Friday, the force confirmed the body of a man had been discovered in a wooded area near Kilsyth Road in nearby Banknock.
Although formal identification was yet to take place, Mr Cooper’s family was informed of the discovery.
In a Facebook post on Sunday evening, his family confirmed the “devastating news” he had “been found – but not in the way we hoped or prayed for”.
His aunt, Aimee Tennie, wrote: “Our worst fears have become reality, and we are now living a nightmare we can’t wake up from.
“We never gave up, and we will never give up – not until we have the answers. The fight for truth, for justice, and for Cole is not over.
“Cole, you were our world – and now our world will never be the same.
“Your life was only just beginning. The world didn’t get to know the light you carried, but we did – and we will carry it with us, always.”
Ms Tennie paid tribute to the “incredible community” for all their support “through this horrendous experience”.
She added: “Every message, every shared post, every act of kindness – your generosity and compassion carried us through our darkest moments. We will never forget it.”
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Speaking to Sky News last month, Mr Cooper’s mum spoke of her heartbreak.
Wendy Stewart said: “I have been wanting to wake up, and it’s just been a big nightmare.”
Mr Cooper’s family said the joinery apprentice had recently started up his own fencing and decking business, which was thriving.
His brother said life felt “empty” without his sibling.
Connor Cooper described the situation as “hell”, adding: “I would never wish this on anyone.”
The family intend to organise a vigil at a later date.
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Chief Inspector Alex Hatrick previously told Sky News there had been no evidence of criminality in regards to Mr Cooper’s disappearance.
Following the discovery of the body, temporary airspace restrictions – which included drones – were put in place in the Banknock area until Saturday evening.
Police Scotland said enquiries remain ongoing to “establish the full circumstances”.
