Chloe Mitchell 'high risk missing person,' say police as Ballymena criminal probe launched

Police have said Chloe Mitchell is a high risk missing person.

They have become increasingly concerned about her safety since her disappearance almost a week ago.

In a press conference on Friday at Ballymena police station, they confirmed a criminal investigation has been launched into her disappearance and a 26-year-old man is still being questioned.

Chloe Mitchell, 21, was last seen in the early hours of Saturday 3 June in Ballymena town centre.

She was wearing a green and black North Face style jacket, a white T-shirt, leggings and Nike trainers. Searches have been taking place around Harryville and along the banks of the Braid River.

At Friday's press conference, senior police officer has said she hopes that Chloe Mitchell is safe and well as a major search operation continues in Ballymena.

Superintendent Gillian Kearney said police had launched a criminal investigation into the disappearance of the Co Antrim woman.

She said: "Police are continuing to search for 21-year-old Chloe Mitchell, who we are treating as a high-risk missing person. Firstly, I am appealing directly to make contact with the police, family or friends so we know you are safe and well. I am also asking the public to contact us if they have seen Chloe."

Ms Kearney added: "We are becoming increasingly concerned about Chloe's safety. It is out of character for her to not be in contact with her family.

"They are being supported by specialist officers during this worrying time.

"We have launched a criminal investigation into her disappearance and we are examining a number of scenes."

She continued: "I hope Chloe is safe and well and that is why today we are appealing for information from anybody who may have seen her or may know where she is."

Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know.