A search of the River Avon earlier this week was for a missing man. Police from Lancashire believe the man seen falling into the river is Carl Whiteside from Lancaster.
Mr Whiteside, 26, had been missing since early on Wednesday (April 20) morning and police had said they were increasingly concerned about him. Mr Whiteside's family have been informed.
A statement released today (April 23) from Lancashire Constabulary reads: "Yesterday we appealed for help as part of our enquiries to find missing Carl Whiteside, 26, from Lancaster. As those enquiries were continuing colleagues from Avon and Somerset Constabulary received a report that a man had fallen from the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol.
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"Very sadly, although we cannot be certain, all the evidence we have so far leads us to believe that this person was Carl. Enquiries are ongoing to confirm this.
"Carl’s family have been informed and our thoughts are with them at this time. We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who shared and supported our previous appeal in our search to find Carl."
A large presence of emergency services was seen at the A4 Portway on Wednesday afternoon after reports that a man had fallen into the river. Avon and Somerset Police confirmed tonight that no one has been found.
Where to get mental health and suicide support
- Samaritans (116 123) operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer to write down how you're feeling, or if you're worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org.
- CALM Campaign Against Living Miserably (0800 58 58 58) is a leading movement against suicide. It runs a UK helpline and webchat from 5pm to midnight 365 days a year for anyone who has hit a wall for any reason, who need to talk or find information and support.
- Childline (0800 1111) runs a helpline for children and young people in the UK. Calls are free and the number won't show up on your phone bill.
- PAPYRUS (0800 068 41 41) is an organisation supporting teenagers and young adults who are feeling suicidal.
- Mind (0300 123 3393) is a charity providing advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They campaign to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding.
- Students Against Depression is a website for students who are depressed, have a low mood or are having suicidal thoughts.
- Bullying UK is a website for both children and adults affected by bullying.
