Two men held on suspicion of murder after student Thomas Jones, 18, goes missing in first week at university

A second man has been arrested on suspicion of murder as police continue to search for a university student who went missing five days ago.

Thomas Jones, 18, was last seen in the early hours of September 19 close to the River Severn in Worcester, during his first week at university.

Two 20-year-old men remain in police custody after a further arrest on Sunday evening, West Mercia Police said.

Mr Jones is thought to have crossed the Sabrina footbridge before walking on to the footpath along the top of the flood defences on Hylton Road towards Hallow just before 3.50am.

Members of the public have been asked to stay away from the search area where trained divers and officers are conducting a “full and thorough search”.

Superintendent Damian Pettit said: “The investigating team have been carrying out extensive enquiries and searches since Thomas was reported missing on Wednesday – officers are working around the clock to try to locate Thomas.

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“The community of Worcester has really pulled together and I would like to thank everyone who has come forward with information, as well as to the hundreds of volunteers who have been supporting the investigation.

“We are continuing the investigation with a number of lines of enquiry and will keep the community updated with developments in our continued investigation.

“Thomas’s family has been made aware of the updates and they are being supported by specially trained officers.”

Superintendent Pettit continued: “I understand today’s update may have an impact on the local community and there will be officers in the local area over the coming days to offer reassurance to local residents.

“Anyone who is concerned is encouraged to speak to a local officer on patrol or to call us.

“Searches will be continuing and we kindly ask that the public stay away from the search area, so that our trained officers can continue to conduct a full and thorough search.

“We are working with the university to ensure that staff, students and all affected by Thomas’s disappearance are receiving the support they need.”