Huge manhunt as suitcases of human remains dumped on Clifton Suspension Bridge

A man hunt is under way after two suitcases containing human remains were found on a major bridge, Avon and Somerset Police's major crime unit is investigating after suitcases suspected to contain human remains were discovered on Clifton Suspension Bridge.

The discovery was triggered by a report of a suspicious man with a suitcase on the bridge late on Wednesday. Upon arrival around midnight police found the man had left the scene leaving behind a suitcase. Authorities stated that another suitcase was then detected nearby with both believed to contain human remains.

The primary objectives for Avon and Somerset Police are to identify the individual who discarded the suitcases on the bridge and ascertain the identity of the deceased person or persons. While the scene is investigated by forensic teams and officers Clifton Suspension Bridge remains shut to all traffic, reports Bristol Live

Acting Bristol commander Vicks Hayward-Melen said on Thursday: "This is a very disturbing incident and I fully recognise the concern it will be causing our communities. The investigation is being led by our major crime investigation team and involves specialist officers and staff from across our organisation.

"Our immediate priority is to locate the man who took the suitcases to the bridge, identify the deceased, and inform their next of kin. Specialist officers are ready to provide them with any support they need. An immediate search of the area was carried out by officers on the ground with the support of the National Police Air Service and HM Coastguard following the discovery of the suitcases. These searches remain ongoing.

"Initial enquiries have established the man was taken to the bridge in a taxi. This vehicle has been seized and the driver is helping us with our inquiries. Specialist crime scene investigators are currently examining the bridge and surrounding area and the bridge will remain closed while these enquiries are conducted. A forensic post-mortem examination will take place later today. There is currently an increased police presence in the area and anyone who has concerns is encouraged to speak to an officer." Anyone who has relevant information which could aid the police investigation is asked to call 101 and quote reference number 5224180010.