Police update on Oxford man who went missing one year ago

It has now been a year since Stephen, whose surname was never revealed by Thames Valley Police, was last seen.

The 54-year-old was reported missing on Sunday, April 20, last year, having not been heard from since March 30, 2025.

A statement issued by Thames Valley Police on Monday morning (March 30) stated that Stephen stopped at the East Isley Shell garage at approximately 8.15pm on March 31 last year, where he purchased a five-litre fuel can.

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Missing man Stephen (Image: Thames Valley Police)

He then travelled by car, a blue Mazda 3, which was then abandoned by a field on the Ridgeway near Southfields, Aldworth, West Berkshire.

It is thought to have been there since March 31, 2025.

A comprehensive search of Stephen’s car and the area has been conducted, but a fuel can was not located.

Stephen is described by police as 5ft 11ins tall, of slim build, and may be wearing blue jeans, an open-necked top, a striped cardigan, walking boots and glasses. He is known to carry a backpack with him.

Stephen also has links to Littlehampton, West Sussex.

Thames Valley Police has now renewed its appeal for the public’s help to find missing man Stephen, releasing a fresh statement today (Monday, March 30).

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Example of petrol can purchased by Stephen. (Image: Thames Valley Police)

Lead investigating officer, Detective Inspector Elizabeth Batchelor, said: “Ever since Stephen was reported missing in April last year, we have been growing increasingly concerned for his welfare.

“Our officers have searched the Ridgeway, where his car was abandoned, with support from Berkshire Lowland Search and Rescue and have been continuing to make enquiries in an effort to trace him.

“We have been working hard to find Stephen since he was reported missing, and we are still appealing for the public’s help to locate him.

“So if you see Stephen, please call 999, quoting the reference number 43250192691.

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Example of petrol can purchased by Stephen. (Image: Thames Valley Police)

“We are also appealing to anyone who may have picked up a green five-litre fuel can, like the one pictured, on or around the time that he went missing, as we believe that this person(s) may have information that could assist our search. The can may have been filled with unleaded petrol.

“We are also asking anyone who may have seen or spoken to Stephen on Thursday, March 27, 2025, to please get in touch.

“Anyone with information on Stephen’s whereabouts, no matter how insignificant or small it may seem, please make a report via our website.

“Stephen, if you see this appeal, please know that you are not in any trouble, but we are concerned for you. So, please contact us and let us know where you are.”