The brother of a teenager whose disappearance shocked the Midlands has passed away without learning what became of him.
Lee O’Toole, the brother of David Spencer, was remembered with heartfelt tributes, as his family expressed hope that he and David are “so happy in heaven.”
Lee had dedicated much of his life to searching for David, 13, and his friend Patrick Warren, 11, two boys who vanished from Chelmsley Wood over thirty years ago. The pair were widely known as the “Milk Carton Kids,” a name stemming from the widespread campaign featuring their images on milk cartons seeking information about their whereabouts.
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When Lee was just nine years old, the boys disappeared on Boxing Day in 1996. Driven by determination, Lee led a renewed community effort in 2021 to locate the missing boys, organising an extensive dig on abandoned land behind Solihull Moors Football Club.
Despite no discoveries being made during this search, Lee received recognition for his unwavering commitment and courage. His efforts were sparked by a credible tip suggesting that Brian Field, a convicted child killer and main suspect, had been seen digging in the area shortly after the boys went missing.
Tragically, Lee passed away at the age of 39 on Wednesday, 16 September. Supporters set up a GoFundMe page to assist with funeral expenses, raising £2,500.
In a statement on the Milk Carton Kids social media page, it was written: “I am writing this with a very heavy heart, but Lee O’Toole, David’s brother, passed away on 16 September.
“As you know, Lee did everything in his power to find his brother and Paddy, and he was always grateful to the community and everyone who helped during the 2021 dig.
“Lee was the strongest man we know. We want him remembered for his bravery and determination in all he undertook.
“We believe Lee now has the answers he sought and will be reunited with David, which was all he ever wanted.
“Thank you all for the love and support you gave him. Rest in paradise, Lee. You will be forever missed and loved by us all. Fly high, our beautiful angel, until we meet again. Love, Marie and your babies.”
Lee’s daughter expressed her sorrow, writing: “I love you so much, Dad. I hope you and David are so happy in heaven. See you soon, my angels.”
Other friends and community members offered their condolences:
“Been so sad to hear this. My heart is with the family. Haven’t stopped thinking about you all. Love to all the family always.”
“Such sad news. Thinking of you all in these harrowing times. Fly high, one of God’s true angels. Sending love, peace, and sincere condolences to the family and all his friends. RIP.”
“Absolutely shocked and stunned. Rest in eternal peace, Lee. Spent many hours at the dig with Lee and his family; he was such a lovely soul and still so young. Thinking of all his loved ones at such a tragic time.”