Family 'going through hell' after Falkirk teen's out of character disappearance

A family says they are “going through hell” after a teenager’s out of character disappearance more than a week ago.

Cole Cooper was last seen on the A803 Glasgow/Kilsyth Road at the junction with Cumbernauld Road, in Banknock, around 7.30pm on May 7.

The 19-year-old’s mum, Wendy Stewart, last saw her son on May 2 and says she is usually in constant contact with him over the phone.

Alarms were raised after Wendy attempted to call Cole over a number of days, and he failed to answer.

The teenager was officially reported as missing on May 9.

Police Scotland has confirmed the last CCTV was taken at around 6am on May 4 in the Longcroft area.

Cole’s mum told STV News: “It has been hell.

“I’ve only had three hours’ sleep if I’m lucky. I’m not eating, and I’ve been taking panic attacks.

“My blood pressure is through the roof. It has been really hard, if it wasn’t for my family and the community pulling together, I wouldn’t be coping at all.”

Cole’s ten-year-old sister Casia has also created a bracelet for her big brother in his absence and has pleaded for him to come home.

She said: “Please come back, I love and miss you”.

Police Scotland says they are becoming “increasingly concerned” for the teen’s welfare.

Inspector Neil Wotherspoon, Falkirk Police Office, said: “We are increasingly concerned for Cole’s welfare and have carried out extensive enquiries in the area with specialist resources.

“We would ask anyone who has seen him, or knows where he might be to get in touch. I would also like to appeal to Cole himself to contact family, friends or our officers.

“Anyone with information about Cole’s whereabouts should call Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 828 of May 9, 2025.”

The teenager is described as around 5ft 10ins, of medium build with brown short hair. He was last seen wearing black jogging bottoms and a black puffer-style jacket.