Police have released an image of a suspect who remains at large after human remains were discovered in two suitcases left near Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol.
Officers were alerted to reports of a man seen acting suspiciously on the bridge just before midnight on Wednesday. Avon and Somerset Police arrived at the scene within ten minutes, but the suspect had already vanished, leaving a suitcase behind. A second suitcase was found nearby shortly afterward.
An immediate search of the area was conducted by officers on the ground, supported by the National Police Air Service and HM Coastguard. Despite these efforts, the suspect has yet to be apprehended.
Due to the ongoing police activity, the Clifton Suspension Bridge has been closed for the day. The bridge’s operators issued a statement on social media saying, “Due to a police incident, the bridge and visitor center are CLOSED all day today (11th JULY) to ALL traffic and pedestrians. We apologize for the disruption.”
Acting Bristol Commander Vicks Hayward-Melen emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “This is a very disturbing incident and we are doing everything we can to locate the suspect and identify the human remains. We urge anyone with information to come forward immediately.
The police have also set up a large cordon in the area as forensic investigators work at the scene. The Clifton Suspension Bridge, a Grade I listed landmark designed by Victorian engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, opened in 1864 and spans the Avon Gorge.
Anyone with information that could assist in the investigation is urged to contact Avon and Somerset Police by calling 101 or via social media @ASPolice and quoting reference number CAD873/11Jul. Information can also be provided anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
