Body Found in Caravan Sparks Murder Manhunt Finale
A shocking discovery has turned the spotlight back on a grim murder case. A decomposed body was found in a remote caravan near Cleeve Hill, Watchet, believed to be Richard Scatchard, the 70-year-old missing sex offender linked to the death of his girlfriend, Kelly Faiers.
Scatchard Vanished After Girlfriend’s Tragic Death
Scatchard had been on the run for more than six months after Kelly Faiers, 61, was found dead at his home in Minehead, Somerset, on October 15 last year. Police wanted to question him over her suspicious death, sparking a massive manhunt when he vanished.
A member of the public tipped off authorities about the body on April 4. While formal ID is still pending, police strongly suspect the remains are Scatchard’s.
Dangerous Past and Police Warnings
Scatchard was a convicted sex offender known for drugging victims, posing a serious threat especially to women he got involved with. Avon and Somerset Police had repeatedly warned the public about his dangerous history of sexual offences.
Ongoing Investigation and Police Scrutiny
Detective Superintendent Gary Haskins expressed condolences to the family of Kelly Faiers and assured that police will continue supporting them. A forensic post-mortem will determine the cause and timing of the man’s death, currently treated as unexplained.
Faiers’ death remains a suspicious case, with police actively pursuing further leads despite an inconclusive initial post-mortem. Meanwhile, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating Avon and Somerset Police’s handling of the case after concerns about their response following Scatchard’s disappearance.
