The disappearance of Rebecca Smallcalder, 26, and Louis Bond, 31, has sparked a growing concern among authorities and family members. The couple, reported missing from Gillingham, Kent, were last seen together on Monday, January 6, 2025, around 2:30 pm in the Brompton area. Newly released CCTV footage offers a crucial glimpse into their last known movements, capturing them walking along a street in the Chatham area approximately an hour later, at around 3:25 pm. This latest visual evidence provides a vital clue for investigators as they strive to piece together the couple’s whereabouts and the circumstances surrounding their disappearance.
The CCTV images depict Rebecca wearing a black coat and hat, with a bag slung over her shoulder. Louis is similarly dressed in a black coat, sporting a light-colored hat and carrying a carrier bag. This bag differs from the black rucksack and reflective jacket he was seen with earlier, suggesting he may have discarded those items. This detail, seemingly minor, could potentially hold significance as the investigation progresses, perhaps indicating a change in plans or an attempt to alter their appearance.
The initial reports of Louis’s disappearance led authorities to uncover Rebecca’s simultaneous absence, establishing a link between the two cases. It was confirmed they were in a relationship and last seen together in Gillingham High Street on the afternoon of their disappearance. This crucial piece of information has focused the investigation on their joint movements and potential shared circumstances leading to their vanishing.
Kent Police have released descriptions of both individuals to aid the public in their search. Louis is described as a white male, 5ft 5ins tall, of slim build with a shaved head. Rebecca is described as a white female, 5ft 11ins tall, of slim build with dark hair, typically worn in a ponytail. These physical characteristics are essential for potential witnesses to identify the couple and report any sightings, which could prove crucial in locating them.
Rebecca’s family, understandably distraught, have taken to social media to plead for her safe return. Her sister’s heartfelt message expressing their love and desperation underscores the emotional toll this disappearance has taken on their loved ones. The public appeal, shared widely on Facebook, amplifies the police’s efforts in spreading awareness and engaging the community in the search. The family’s plea, coupled with the police’s investigation, highlights the collective effort to bring Rebecca and Louis home.
Chief Inspector Garry Cook has expressed significant concern for the couple’s welfare, urging anyone with information to contact the police immediately. The urgency of the situation is emphasized by the request to call 999, the emergency services number, quoting reference 06-0983. This underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating the case and the critical need for any information that could lead to their safe recovery. The combined efforts of law enforcement, family, and the wider community are crucial in this ongoing search, hoping to bring a swift and positive resolution to the concerning disappearance of Rebecca Smallcalder and Louis Bond.
