The search for a 28-year-old hairdresser Shanahan MacInnes, who went missing on the Isle of Benbecula, Outer Hebrides, has ended in tragedy.
A body believed to be hers was discovered in the Aird area of the island on Sunday afternoon, Police Scotland has confirmed.
MacInnes, last seen in the early hours of Friday morning in the Tindill Road area of Balivanich, was reported missing, prompting an extensive search operation involving over 60 volunteers alongside police, coastguard, and fire services.
Her family, in a heart-wrenching statement, described her death as an “extremely tragic accident” and said, “It was nobody’s fault.”
They expressed their devastation, thanking the community for their support during the search.
Known for her work at the Shore Room Hair and Beauty salon, she was a beloved member of the community.
The salon announced its closure until further notice, citing the need for time to process the loss. “We appreciate all the love and support we have received at this time,” they wrote on social media.
In a statement released by Police Scotland, authorities confirmed saying, “Around 1.05pm on Sunday, 24 November, 2024, officers were made aware that a body of a woman had been found in the Aird area of Benbecula. Formal identification has still to take place, however, the family of 28-year-old Shanahan MacInnes, who was missing from Balivanich, has been made aware. The death is not being treated as suspicious, and a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.”
MacInnes was described as 5ft 8in tall, of slim build, with long blonde hair. She was last seen wearing a burgundy tracksuit and white trainers with a black Nike logo.
Her sudden disappearance, leaving behind her car, purse, phone, and keys, raised alarm within the close-knit community.
Inspector Ross McCartney, who led the search, had earlier expressed concerns about her welfare, calling her disappearance “extremely out of character.”
The discovery has left the island community in mourning, with tributes pouring in for the young woman.
Friends, colleagues, and locals have expressed their condolences, describing Shanahan as a vibrant and cherished part of their lives.
While formal identification is awaited, her family and community are left grappling with the loss of a life taken too soon.
