Judo Olympian Lubjana Piovesana appeals for help to find brother, saying ‘next hours are critical’

A Judo Olympian’s Plea for Help: The Search for Her Missing Brother

Lubjana Piovesana, a 28-year-old Olympian judoka who has represented both Team GB and the Austrian team, has issued a heartfelt appeal for assistance in finding her younger brother, Luis, who has gone missing in Bristol. Luis, aged 26, was last seen in the early hours of Friday morning, and his disappearance has sparked widespread concern. The Avon and Somerset Police have described their growing worry for his welfare, emphasizing that his absence is entirely out of character. Lubjana, known for her impressive performance in the women’s -63kg judo event in Paris last year, where she defeated Team GB’s Lucy Renshall, has taken to social media to plead for help, stating that her brother is without a phone, money, or cards, leaving him in a vulnerable state.

Last Sighting and Description

The last confirmed sighting of Luis was captured on CCTV at the Eastgate retail park, where he had arrived via a taxi from a venue on Little Ann Street in the St Jude’s area, approximately a 10-minute drive away. Police have provided a detailed description of his attire and distinguishing features in hopes that members of the public can aid in locating him. He was wearing black baggy jeans with diamond-patterned stitching, cream-colored trainers, a black and grey Rapha gilet, and a black Rapha cap. Additionally, Luis has distinctive tattoos, including a cartoon-style depiction of a man, a car, and a cherub on his arm, and a Vespa motorbike on his stomach. He also has connections to the Frenchay area on the outskirts of Bristol, which could be a potential location for his whereabouts.

Urgent Call for Assistance

Detective Inspector Pete Walker has expressed the police’s deep concern for Luis’s safety, urging anyone with information to come forward without delay. He highlighted that Luis lacks access to his mobile phone and financial resources, which complicates the situation and escalates the urgency of the search. The police are conducting extensive searches, but they have called on the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings or potential clues. Lubjana has reinforced this plea by asking people to check shelters such as sheds, garages, and public toilets, as her brother might be seeking refuge from the cold. She stressed that the next few hours are critical in the search efforts and that any assistance from the community could be invaluable.

The Community Rallies Together

The disappearance of Luis has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting an outpouring of support and shared concern. Social media has become a key tool in disseminating information, with Lubjana’s post on Facebook quickly gaining traction and attention. The police have released images provided by Avon and Somerset Police, which include photos of Luis and details of his last known location. These visual aids are crucial in helping the public recognize and remember him, potentially leading to his safe return. Additionally, the detailed description of his clothing and tattoos serves as a vital resource for identification, as any information, no matter how small, could prove significant in solving this case.

The Importance of Public Vigilance

As the search for Luis continues, the emphasis remains on public vigilance and proactive assistance. The police have reiterated the importance of every lead, encouraging anyone who might have seen Luis or has information about his possible whereabouts to contact them immediately. Lubjana’s personal appeal has added an emotional weight to the official calls for help, underlining the human aspect of the situation. The community’s role is not just to share information but also to actively support the efforts by checking possible places where someone in distress might seek shelter. This collective effort is essential in ensuring that every opportunity to find Luis is seized, especially during these critical hours.

A City United in Hope

As Bristol comes together in this time of need, the hope remains steadfast that Luis will be found safe and sound. The collaboration between the police, the family, and the public exemplifies the strength of community spirit and the impact of collective action. While the situation is undeniably challenging, the unwavering commitment to finding Luis serves as a beacon of hope. The heartfelt appeals from both the authorities and Lubjana have resonated deeply, reminding us all of the importance of supporting one another in times of crisis. As the search persists, it is this unity and determination that will continue to guide efforts in reuniting Luis with his loved ones.