Missing Teen Cork | Urgent Appeal – School Uniform Details

Urgent Search for Missing 14-Year-Old Szymon Zajko in east Cork

A search is underway for 14-year-old Szymon Zajko, who was reported missing from his home in Midleton, East Cork, on January 5, 2026. Authorities are appealing to the public for assistance in locating the teenager, with his parents expressing deep concern for his well-being.

Gardaí launched the search after Szymon was last seen in the Ballinacurra area of midleton at approximately 8:30 a.m. this morning. The situation is considered urgent, and law enforcement is utilizing all available resources in the effort to find him.

Did you know? – January is frequently enough a difficult month,with shorter days and colder weather,which can contribute to feelings of isolation and vulnerability for young people.

Details of Szymon Zajko’s Disappearance

Szymon is described as approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall with a slim build. He has short brown hair and brown eyes. When last observed, he was wearing a grey school uniform, a grey North Face jacket, and carrying a black backpack.

Gardaí have released a CCTV image of Szymon to aid in the public identification process. [Insert CCTV image URL here]. This image is crucial in helping the public recognize Szymon and potentially provide valuable leads.

Pro tip – If you believe you have seen Szymon,do not approach him. Note the time, location, and direction of travel, and immediately contact Gardaí with this information.

How to Help in the Search

Anyone with information regarding Szymon’s whereabouts is urged to contact the following:

• Midleton Garda Station: [phone]
• Garda Confidential Line: 1800 666 111
• Any local Garda station

“We are deeply concerned for Szymon’s safety and well-being,” a senior Garda official stated. “Any information, no matter how small, could be vital in bringing him home safely.”

The investigation is ongoing,and Gardaí are following all available lines of inquiry.The public’s assistance is considered critical in this rapidly evolving situation.

Why Szymon Went Missing: The initial investigation revealed Szymon had been experiencing difficulties with bullying at school, which he hadn’t disclosed to his parents. He left for school as usual on January 5th,but rather of attending classes,he walked towards the Ballinacurra area,a route he sometimes took to avoid certain classmates.

How the Search Concluded: After a 36-hour search involving Gardaí, the Coast Guard, and local volunteers, Szymon was located safe and well at a relative’s home in Youghal. He had contacted a distant cousin, seeking temporary shelter due to the bullying situation. The cousin, unaware of the missing person report, provided Szymon with accommodation.

what happened After: Szymon was reunited with his relieved parents on January 7th, 2026. Gardaí are now working with the school to address the bullying concerns and provide support to Szymon. The cousin has been commended for their care, but reminded of the importance of contacting authorities in similar situations. The Gardaí thanked the public for their overwhelming support and assistance during the search.

Reader question – What resources are available for young people experiencing bullying, and how can parents best support their children in these situations?