Police fear missing student Libby Squire has 'come to harm'
Humberside Police issue an update as the 21-year-old's mother tells of her "utter heartbreak and despair" amid the ongoing search.
Thursday 28 February 2019 13:06, UK
Police say they are increasingly concerned that missing student Libby Squire has been harmed.
It comes as they released unseen pictures of the 21-year-old relaxing at Hull University. In the clip, she is seen laughing and having fun with friends.
In a statement, Detective Superintendent Martin Smalley said officers had "followed up hundreds of leads and lines of inquiry" and carried out "intensive searches" over the past four weeks.
But he added: "As time passes by with no positive indication as to where Libby is or what has happened to her, Libby's disappearance remains unexplained and we must increasingly consider she has come to harm.
"We continue to support Libby's family and ensure they always are updated with the progress of the investigation. We are determined to give them the answers they need."
Libby was last seen on 1 February at 12.05am and there have not been any further sightings or contact from the student.
Humberside Police said despite releasing CCTV footage last week of four potential witnesses and receiving several calls, they were unable to identify any of the individuals.
They said searches were continuing in playing fields, identified as an area of interest, as they conduct further searches in and around the River Hull.
In a statement, Libby's mother Lisa Squire said: "It's now been four weeks without our beautiful Libby. A month of utter heartbreak and despair.
"As a family we are incomplete. We miss her more than we could ever say. We just want her back with us.
"Please if anyone has any information no matter how insignificant it may seem, contact the police."
Detective Superintendent Smalley said he was aware of "speculation and theories" behind Libby's disappearance and said they would be considered as part of the investigation.
He added: "CCTV footage has formed a crucial part of the investigation so far, with detectives working non-stop and viewing hours of film to piece together Libby's movements and thereafter the last sighting.
"We haven't released the majority of this footage for operational reasons and to protect the integrity of the investigation.
"Where we are able to, we will share updates as to the progress of the investigation as I understand everyone wants to know where Libby is."
Libby was reported missing after a night out with friends in Hull. She was last seen at the junction of Beverley Road and Haworth Street and was wearing a black denim skirt and faux leather jacket and distinctive trainers.
A man remains under investigation for kidnap in connection with Libby's disappearance.