Two suitcases containing human remains found on bridge

Two suitcases believed to contain human remains have been found by police who were called to reports of a man seen acting suspiciously on Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol, Avon and Somerset Police said. Officers were called to the bridge at 11.57pm on Wednesday and arrived at the scene within ten minutes, but the man had already left the scene, leaving the suitcase behind.

A second suitcase was found nearby a short time later. 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.

“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 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.”