Search for man after human remains found in suitcases on Clifton Suspension Bridge

Police cordon at the Clifton Suspension Bridge
-Credit: (Image: Tristan Cork/BristolLive)


Police have launched a search for a man after human remains were found in suitcases on Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol. Two suitcases were found after officers were called to reports of a man acting suspiciously.

They arrived at the scene at 11.57pm but the man had already left the scene. Acting Bristol Commander Vicks Hayward-Melen said: “This is a very disturbing incident and I fully recognise the concern it will be causing our communities.

“Our Major Crime Investigation Team is leading the investigation 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 enquiries.

“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.”

Bristol Live reports that several police vehicles, including forensics, are at the bridge. The bridge has been totally shut since 6.30am today (July 11).