Was missing Student Tom Dingle found dead on Christmas Day? What Police have confirmed so far
Tom Dingle. Image: Lancashire Police
A body has been found in the search for Tom Dingle, a 19-year-old Lancaster University student who went missing earlier this month, police have confirmed. The discovery was made on Christmas Day, bringing a tragic end to a case that had prompted widespread concern and appeals across Lancashire and Greater Manchester.
Lancashire Police said the body was found by a member of the public in woodland off Lees Lane in Dalton shortly after 3:00pm on December 25. While formal identification is yet to take place, officers believe the body to be that of Tom Dingle. His death is not being treated as suspicious, and a file will be passed to HM Coroner in due course.
Who Was Tom Dingle?
Tom Dingle, 19, was from Appley Bridge, Lancashire, and was studying at Lancaster University. He was reported missing after he failed to return home, prompting a multi-day police search and emotional pleas from his family.
Throughout the search, Tom’s disappearance attracted national attention, with police releasing CCTV footage and issuing repeated appeals for information.
Timeline of Tom Dingle Disappearance
Tom was last seen in the early hours of Friday, December 13. CCTV footage showed him walking along Mill Lane in Appley Bridge, heading in the direction of the Boathouse pub shortly after leaving Stonemill Rise at around 12:30am.
Police described these movements as his last confirmed sighting, and officers worked to trace his route in the days that followed. Despite extensive enquiries, Tom remained missing for nearly two weeks before the tragic discovery was made.
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Police Statement After Body Found
In an official statement, Lancashire Constabulary said:
“At 3.12pm on Christmas Day, we were contacted by a member of the public who had found a man deceased in woodland off Lees Lane in Dalton. Although no formal identification has taken place, we believe it to be the body of 19-year-old Tom Dingle.”
Police confirmed that Tom’s family has been informed and is being supported by specially trained officers. Officers also asked for the family’s privacy to be respected as they come to terms with the devastating news.
Is Tom Dingle’s Death Being Treated as Suspicious?
Police have stressed that there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death at this stage. A spokesperson confirmed that the case will now be handled by the coroner, who will determine the formal cause of death following further examination.
No additional details have been released.
Community Reaction and Family Appeals
During the search, Tom’s family described the ordeal as “hell” and made heartfelt appeals for his safe return. Messages of support flooded social media, with students, local residents, and strangers sharing police appeals and CCTV images in the hope of finding him.
Police also thanked members of the public who assisted by sharing information and helping circulate appeals during the search.
Final Note
The discovery of a body believed to be Tom Dingle has brought a deeply distressing chapter to a close for his family, friends, and the wider community. While questions remain to be formally answered by the coroner, police have confirmed there is no suspicion of foul play.
This tragic case serves as a stark reminder of how quickly concern can turn to heartbreak, particularly during what should have been a season of celebration.
FAQ
Who was Tom Dingle?
Tom Dingle was a 19-year-old Lancaster University student from Appley Bridge, Lancashire, who was reported missing in December.
When did Tom Dingle go missing?
He was last seen in the early hours of December 13, according to CCTV footage released by police.
Where was Tom Dingle last seen?
Tom was last captured on CCTV walking along Mill Lane in Appley Bridge, heading toward the Boathouse pub.
Has Tom Dingle been found?
Yes. Police believe a body found in woodland off Lees Lane in Dalton on Christmas Day is Tom Dingle, though formal identification is pending.
When was the body found?
The body was discovered shortly after 3:00pm on December 25, 2025, by a member of the public.
Is Tom Dingle’s death suspicious?
No. Lancashire Police have confirmed the death is not being treated as suspicious.
Has Tom Dingle’s family been informed?
Yes. Police confirmed that Tom’s family has been informed and is receiving support from specialist officers.
What happens next in the investigation?
A file will be passed to HM Coroner, who will carry out further inquiries and establish the formal cause of death.
Did police release CCTV during the search?
Yes. CCTV footage showing Tom’s last known movements was released to assist the search.
Where can updates be found?
Updates are expected through official statements from Lancashire Police and verified UK news outlets.