Volunteers needed for fresh search for missing Dunmore man
THE family of Stephen Cunningham are looking for volunteers from the Maam Cross and Oughterard areas who can take part in a fresh search for Stephen this Sunday, January 30.
Volunteers partaking in the search are asked to meet at Peacockes Hotel in Maam Cross at 9am on Sunday morning.
Some trails nearby to the hotel have been identified as areas of interest that may provide clues as to Stephen’s whereabouts. The ground underfoot is heavy, and anyone joining the search is advised to bring a raincoat, wellies, hi-vis jacket, walking stick among other items.
Stephen (32) was reported missing from his home in Tír na gCapall in Ballybrit on November 7 of 2020 by his mother, who had not received contact from him since October 29 of 2021.
“We are hoping to cover another large area we believe he might have been through, and I’m reaching out again in the hope that some of you may be free to join us. I can’t thank you enough for all who have helped search and spread the word to help us find him,” said Tara Cunningham, Stephen’s sister.
It is thought that Dunmore native Stephen may have visited Croagh Patrick on November 5, as he was sighted at a petrol station in Westport. Further sightings of Stephen came on November 6 at Dunnes Stores in the Briarhill Shopping Centre, and possibly on Middle Street in Galway city.
Stephen’s silver-coloured Volkswagen Passat (08-G-3521) was found near the N59 road in the townland of Bunnakill in Maam Cross on November 10. Gardaí believe the car may have been parked there since November 7.
Searches for Stephen have been ongoing in the Maam Cross area since his disappearance. Stephen is described as being 6’ 2” in height, broad build, with blue eyes and short red hair. He was wearing a beige coat, blue jeans with cuts at the knees and beige canvas shoes.
Anyone with information that may lead to Stephen’s discovery is asked to contact Galway Garda Station at 091538000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800666111, or any other Garda Station.