A new documentary unveils CCTV footage that could alter the course of an unsolved case, leaving the family hopeful yet frustrated.

Story Highlights

• New CCTV footage of Jay Slater released in a Channel 4 documentary.
• Footage shows Slater hours before his disappearance in Tenerife in 2024.
• Spanish police are reviewing the footage for fresh leads.
• The case remains unsolved, with family pressing for renewed search efforts.

Documentary Provides Fresh Evidence

In September 2025, Channel 4 aired a documentary unveiling previously unseen CCTV footage of Jay Slater, a British tourist who vanished in Tenerife in June 2024. The footage captures Slater walking near a local café just hours before he disappeared. This new evidence has reignited both public interest and investigative efforts into his unsolved case. The footage is currently under forensic analysis by Spanish police, who hope it could offer new leads.

Jay Slater’s disappearance attracted significant media attention due to its international nature and the lack of resolution. The 19-year-old was last seen in a remote area while trying to return to his accommodation after attending a music festival. His case highlights the difficulties faced in cross-border investigations, as both Spanish and British authorities struggled with jurisdictional challenges and limited concrete evidence. This new footage may provide the necessary breakthrough to advance the investigation.

Jay Slater’s last known sighting captured on CCTV hours before his death https://t.co/RIXJNKpBAl pic.twitter.com/SnnacAuPVf

— The Independent (@Independent) September 22, 2025

Family and Public Reaction

Slater’s family has expressed a mix of hope and frustration following the release of the documentary. They have been vocal advocates for continued search efforts, believing that the new footage could be pivotal in finding answers. The family has renewed their calls for expanded search operations, urging authorities to explore all possible leads. Public interest in the case has also surged, with many hoping for a resolution that has eluded investigators for over a year.

The release of the documentary has led to increased scrutiny of search and rescue protocols in remote areas like Tenerife, where Slater disappeared. There have been calls for improved cooperation between international law enforcement agencies to better handle such cases. This situation underscores the emotional and social impact on families and communities affected by unresolved disappearances, emphasizing the need for effective investigative measures.

Media’s Role in Shaping the Investigation

The Channel 4 documentary underscores the powerful role media can play in reviving cold cases. By bringing new evidence to light, the documentary has not only reignited public interest but also prompted authorities to re-examine the case. Media analysts note that such coverage can compel law enforcement to revisit leads and apply pressure for continued investigative efforts. This case serves as a reminder of the potential influence of media in shaping the outcomes of criminal investigations, especially when official efforts stall.

Criminal investigators and media analysts stress the importance of cross-border collaboration and the power of public engagement in solving international cases like Slater’s. As the investigation progresses, the focus remains on finding answers for Slater’s family and preventing future incidents through policy changes and improved international cooperation.

Watch the report: Jay Slater | New CCTV footage from HOURS after disappearance offers hope for missing teen

Sources:

BBC News. “Jay Slater: New CCTV Footage Released in Channel 4 Documentary.” September 2025.
The Guardian. “Family of Missing Jay Slater Hope for Breakthrough After Documentary.” September 2025.
Channel 4 Press Office. “Jay Slater: The Disappearance – Documentary Release.” September 2025.
ITV News. “Jay Slater’s Family Reacts to New Evidence.” September 2025.