Parents’ fury over delay in reporting son missing

Parents’ fury over delay in reporting son missing

The parents of a missing soldier have expressed anger over the Army’s delayed response in noticing their son’s absence. L/Cpl Ryan Rudd, 28, was last spotted at the New Inn in Selby on 15 February, after which he did not return to his barracks at Catterick Garrison. Ken and Kerstin Rudd from Pocklington learned of the situation only when a senior officer contacted them on 1 March, asking if Ryan was home. The couple claims the two-week gap in communication hindered efforts to locate their son.

“The fact that nobody had noticed he was missing for two weeks. It was shocking, we couldn’t believe it was happening,” said Kerstin Rudd.

The Army confirmed an investigation was ongoing and stated it was collaborating with North Yorkshire Police. Ken Rudd, who served in the military, explained that soldiers undergo roll calls, both physical and electronic, to track their whereabouts. He pointed out that Ryan’s absence was not cross-checked for two consecutive Mondays, leaving police two weeks behind in their search.

“For missing those two weeks and not knowing where he was, this has potentially cost my son his life,” said Ken.

The couple believes Ryan would not have vanished on his own. “It’s out of character for him,” Ken remarked. “He’s a soldier, it’s in his nature to go out with mates, but he always comes home.” Kerstin added that Ryan had no reason to disappear and was “enjoying it in the Army.” They remain uncertain whether his fate was accidental or deliberate, as no evidence has surfaced.

North Yorkshire Police mentioned they remain “open minded” about Ryan’s disappearance but noted the possibility he may have entered the River Ouse. The Army’s statement highlighted that Ryan was reported missing on 1 March 2026, with an investigation led by the police. The family hopes sharing their story might prompt someone to recall details from Selby that could aid the search.