A large-scale emergency search operation is ongoing at Pickmere Lake near Northwich after reports of a missing teenage boy prompted an urgent response from police, fire crews, and specialist rescue teams.
Cheshire Police confirmed officers were called to the area following concerns for the welfare of the teenager, who was reported missing earlier in the day. Since then, emergency services have launched an extensive search of the lake and surrounding land in an effort to locate him.
A police helicopter has been deployed to assist with aerial searches across the water and nearby open countryside, while officers on the ground continue to search walking paths, shoreline areas, and surrounding terrain. Specialist units from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service have also joined the operation, providing water rescue expertise and equipment to help cover difficult-to-access sections of the lake.
Authorities have not released the teenager’s identity or additional personal details due to the active nature of the investigation and privacy considerations surrounding missing person cases.
Police described the situation as urgent and asked members of the public to avoid the area while emergency crews continue their work. Officials warned that unnecessary activity near the lake could interfere with the search effort and create additional safety risks because of the number of emergency vehicles and specialist equipment being used.
Investigators are urging anyone who may have information about the teenager’s movements to come forward. Cheshire Police specifically appealed for witnesses, dashcam footage, or sightings that may help establish a timeline, referencing incident number IML 2336977.
Pickmere Lake is a popular recreational area known for fishing, walking, and outdoor activities, but authorities noted that the size of the lake and surrounding natural terrain can make search operations especially challenging.
Emergency services are expected to remain at the scene as efforts continue to locate the missing teenager.