Family pay tribute as remains in Mumbles confirmed to be missing man
Russell Scozzi hasn't been seen since 2002
The family of a man whose remains have been found in Swansea more than 20 years after he went missing have paid tribute to him.
The discovery was made in a wooded area behind Waverley Drive, Mumbles last month.
Police confirmed on Tuesday they belong to missing man Russell Scozzi from West Cross who was last seen in 2002.
Detective Chief Inspector Matt Davies said: "Our investigation into the finding of Mr Scozzi’s remains is ongoing in order that we can establish the circumstances leading up to, and the cause of death.
“The local residents of Waverley Drive supported officers throughout the course of our extensive and prolonged investigation of the scene and I wish to thank them for their support and patience.”
“Following a thorough forensic examination, it’s been established that the remains are those of missing person Russell Scozzi who was last seen in May 2002.
His family have been updated and are being supported by specially trained officers at this difficult time.”
His sister has paid tribute to him. She said: "My heart goes out to Russell`s children who have grown up without their father and never really knowing what happened to him.
“Hopefully now we, as a family, can lay him to rest and with the work of South Wales Police discover what happened to him.
“I dearly loved Russell. He was my big brother who I always looked up to when I was growing up, and to lose him in this way has been devastating.
“Finally, we can be given the opportunity to grieve him properly.”