'Human remains' found in suitcases at Clifton Suspension Bridge
The bridge has been closed since early this morning
Last updated 11th Jul 2024
Two suitcases containing human remains have been found near Clifton Suspension Bridge in the West Country.
Police were called to reports of a man with a suitcase acting suspiciously on the bridge at 11.57pm yesterday (10/7).
Officers arrived at the bridge within 10 minutes, but the man had already left the area, leaving the suitcase behind.
A second suitcase was located nearby a short later. Police say they believe both suitcases contain human remains.
The bridge has been closed in both directions since around 6.30am.
Avon and Somerset Police's Major Crime Investigation Team has launched an investigation. In a statement the force said "locating the man who left the suitcases and identifying the deceased are our priorities."
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."
She added: "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 postmortem 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."