Mum’s Desperate Search Continues for Son Missing in Sardinia for a Year

A British mother remains heartbroken and relentless in her quest to find her son who disappeared in Sardinia a year ago. Michael Frison, 26, went missing on July 13, 2024, merely one day after arriving on the island to volunteer at a local farm.

Despite extensive searches across the surrounding forests, caves, and mountains, no trace of Michael has been found. His mother, Cristina Pittalis, originally from Sardinia but living in Somerset, has moved back to the island with her 11-year-old son in hopes of uncovering new leads.

“I’m trying to stay strong,” Cristina shared, recalling her final conversation with Michael. “He was in a rush but spoke clearly—there was no sign of confusion or distress.”

Cristina fears something terrible has happened, emphasizing, “People don’t just vanish without leaving clues unless something seriously wrong occurs.”

Reports say Michael initially returned from a walk appearing disoriented and suffering from heatstroke symptoms. Later, he left again barefoot, never to return. His clothes and shoes were found nearby. However, Cristina disputes the heatstroke theory, stating that Michael’s past experience living in Sardinia makes it unlikely, and that leaving possessions behind and wandering barefoot was completely out of character.

She is now urging Interpol to join the ongoing local investigation and appeals to a woman from Jersey—believed to have been with Michael just before his disappearance—to come forward with information.

Cristina also spoke about the emotional toll on Michael’s half-brother, Emanuele, who lost their father in 2017. “The two brothers were incredibly close. Emanuele is devastated—he’s lost both his father and now his brother.”

To support the search efforts, a family friend launched a GoFundMe campaign, raising over $10,000 for travel, legal fees, and awareness initiatives.

“It’s a never-ending nightmare,” Cristina said. “I remain deeply worried as there are still no signs of Michael.”