Mum’s agony as son, 14, is found dead after vanishing on way to school as pals say ‘heaven has gained a beautiful angel’
HEARTBREAKING tributes have poured in for a 14-year-old boy who was found dead after he went missing on his way to school.
Logan Slater from Brighouse, West Yorkshire, vanished after leaving his home at around 7.45am on Monday.
The teen’s body was discovered on land off Beechwood Park, Brighouse, two days later on Wednesday.
The circumstances surrounding Logan’s death are still under investigation as authorities try to determine the events that led to the tragic discovery.
Heartfelt tributes have flooded in for the youngster.
In a statement from his devastated parents, mum Amanda Slater shared on social media: “I just wanted to inform you all and those who don’t already know, that unfortunately we have lost our little boy Logan, who was recently missing.
“When we found our boy it was too late and he had already gone.
“He is a HUGE part of our family and deeply loved by many.
“He will live forever in our hearts and thoughts.
“We have been inundated with support and condolences which is greatly appreciated.
“We will take the next few weeks to try and process our losses.
“Thank you for all your kind words and messages.”
One pal wrote: “R.I.P Logan Slater forever 14.
“Many came to pay there respects for you.
“You are missed by so many.
“Forever in our hearts gone but not forgotten the heavens have gained a beautiful angel.”
Richard Horsfield, headteacher at Brighouse High where Logan was a pupil, said the teenager was a valued member of the school community.
Rugby-fan Logan was said to have had a wide circle of friends and good relationships with staff.
He said: “It was a particular pleasure to see his love and enthusiasm for PE, especially within rugby, grow in the years he spent with us.
“We will continue to think of his family and all of his friends at this very sad time and will do all we can as a close knit school to support them.
“We are grateful for the time we spent with him and deeply saddened that the time came to such an abrupt end.”
Mr Horsfield added that specialist support would be available to students.
More messages of support read: “This is absolutely awful and heartbreaking the poor poor boy.”
“Far too young. Much love to your family and friends. Rest in dear peace,” added another.
One saddened resident wrote: “Absolutely heartbreaking. It’s really upset our little community. Fly high Logan.”
It is understood a balloon release and fireworks in Logan’s memory will be held at a local park on Monday at 6.30pm.
West Yorkshire Police said in a statement: “As a number of calls had been made to the police to report this missing person, a mandatory referral is being made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, to review the actions taken by West Yorkshire Police.”
It comes after Logan’s disappearance sparked an immediate search on Monday.
The community came together offering help in the search efforts, sharing posts across social media, and distributing flyers in the hope of bringing Logan home safely.
But the devastating news of his death broke on Wednesday, leaving the “close knit” community heartbroken.
His heartbroken parents shared a gut-wrenching update on Facebook which read: “Logan has been found today, sadly not the way we had hoped.
“Please can we ask for privacy as a family whilst we try to navigate and process.
“Please could everyone check any CCTV they have. Last known location was Beechwood Park road, Bailiff Bridge approximately 7.55am Monday October 21.
“Wearing dark grey school trousers, Brighouse high jumper and a black zip through Gymking hoody.
“Logan was carrying a black Trespass bag.
“He was expected to be heading to school but never made it there so we are unsure of his movements.
“Logan did not have his phone with him so we are unable to track him.
“Please just get our baby home. Thank you to everyone for your support and efforts, obviously we’re unable to reply to you all but please know how grateful we are.”