Detectives investigating the discovery of human remains in two suitcases near the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol have arrested a man. The arrest took place on Friday morning at an address in Greenwich. The 36-year-old man remains in custody.
A Scotland Yard spokesperson confirmed on Friday night, “A man, aged 36, was arrested at an address in Greenwich early on Friday, 12 July. He has been taken into custody where he remains. This is not the same man we are appealing for.” The spokesman declined to reveal the suspicion under which the man was arrested.
Background of the Case
The gruesome discovery was made on Wednesday evening after police were alerted to a man with a suitcase acting suspiciously on the Clifton Suspension Bridge. It is believed the suspect travelled from London to Bristol earlier that day. The Metropolitan Police have since taken the lead on the investigation and set up a crime scene in Shepherd’s Bush, west London.
Investigation Details
The human remains found in the suitcases are believed to belong to two adult men. While one post-mortem examination has returned inconclusive results, a second examination is ongoing. The victims have not yet been formally identified.
A spokesperson from the Metropolitan Police said: “Over the last 48 hours we have been working extremely closely with colleagues from Avon and Somerset. This work leads us to believe the man we need to speak to travelled to Bristol from London earlier on Wednesday evening.
Public Reactions and Precautions
Following the incident, Avon and Somerset Police have increased their presence in the Clifton and Leigh Woods areas of Bristol to reassure residents. A mobile police station has been set up next to the Clifton Suspension Bridge.
A resident of the Scott’s Road area in Shepherd’s Bush, described the police activity: “I heard them all tearing down here in the early hours of the morning. I heard a police car coming down, with lights flashing. It must have been about half past three.”
Appeal for Information
The police have released two pictures of the suspect, showing a black man with a beard, wearing a black Adidas baseball cap, black jeans, a black jacket, and black trainers with thick white soles. He was carrying a black backpack. Authorities have urged the public not to approach the suspect and to call 999 if he is sighted.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine, who is leading the investigation for the Met, emphasized the importance of public cooperation: “We are drawing on resources from across the Met to find and apprehend the suspect and I would urge anyone who believes they see him, or who knows of his whereabouts, to call 999 straight away. Do not approach him.”
Ongoing Investigations
Forensic teams have been active in both Bristol and Shepherd’s Bush, and a private ambulance was seen at the scene in Shepherd’s Bush at 6:30 PM on Friday. The Metropolitan Police and Avon and Somerset Police are continuing their investigations and have encouraged anyone with information or footage that could aid their inquiries to come forward.
Conclusion
This incident has shocked both Bristol and London communities, and the investigation is ongoing. Police have assured the public that they are doing everything possible to bring the suspect to justice and to ensure the safety of the community. More updates will follow as the investigation progresses.
