UPDATE: 9 June 2025, 9:00pm: The search and recovery operation for missing Compass Media journalist Andrel Harris continued on Monday, but the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service reported no further developments. The land search for Harris came to an end on Sunday and the search efforts are now concentrated on the sea.
The search for missing Compass Media journalist Andrel Harris has transitioned to a search and recovery operation, the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service said in an early Sunday afternoon press release.
“The family of Mr. Harris has been informed of this development and a RCIPS family liaison officer is supporting them at this time,” the press release stated. “Search parties have been briefed on the change of direction.”
The police said several items were recovered Saturday and Sunday morning.
“A specific search location was identified where an item was seen in the water that appeared to be a mobile phone,” the press release stated. “The phone was retrieved this morning and will now be examined by forensic specialists.”
Police explained the reason for the transition in the press release.
“Based on evidence collected so far, combined with the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of Mr. Harris, including the length of time that has now passed, this has informed the transition from search to recovery.”Harris was last seen Tuesday, 3 June around 9:30pm walking along Pedro Castle Road toward Pedro St. James. A missing person advisory was issued the following day. An extensive multi-agency land and sea search, aided by members of the public, ensued. An article of clothing found in the water on Thursday was confirmed to have contained an item belonging to Harris.
In its Sunday press release, the RCIPS thanked all of those who have helped in the search efforts, including members of the public and its partner agencies.
“The RCIPS appreciates the impact this news has on the family and friends of Mr. Harris, and the wider community, and request that persons remain sensitive to the matter particularly when considering online activity.”
COMPASS MEDIA STATEMENT ON SEARCH FOR ANDREL HARRIS
Police have now transitioned from a search-and-rescue operation to a search-and-recovery effort of our colleague and friend, Compass Media journalist Andrel Harris. Ocean-based searches are ongoing with guidance from the Cayman Islands Coast Guard.
This is an incredibly difficult time for all of us at Compass Media and for the wider community, as we all know and respect Andrel as a dedicated journalist and proud Caymanian voice. We remain in close contact with the RCIPS and are working in full cooperation with their efforts, while also staying in touch with Andrel’s loved ones. We are committed to supporting them and the police in any way we can.
We continue to urge anyone with information – no matter how small – to come forward and contact the police.
To our community, thank you. Your support, prayers, and assistance have meant a great deal. Our thoughts remain with Andrel’s family and loved ones as we await further updates.
Compass Media will continue to share verified information on our website and social media channels as it becomes available.
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