Murder Probe Launched After Body Found in East Sussex
Detectives have escalated the search for missing Wayne Woodgate, 54, to a full murder investigation after discovering a body in East Sussex.
Missing Man’s Body Found Days Later
Wayne Woodgate vanished on Thursday, 17 October 2024, last seen hopping into a van on Goods Station Road, Tunbridge Wells. kent.police.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title="Kent Police" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Kent Police issued urgent appeals to find him.
Six days later, on Wednesday, 23 October, officers uncovered a body at a rural spot in Peasmarsh, East Sussex. While formal ID is pending, the victim’s family has been informed.
Man, 59, Arrested Over Murder
A 59-year-old man is now in custody, held on suspicion of murder as investigations ramp up. Police are working to piece together what happened in the days before Mr Woodgate’s disappearance turned fatal.
Dashcam Footage Could Crack Case
Detective Chief Inspector Neil Kimber called on drivers along the A268 between Peasmarsh and Four Oaks to check their dashcams and come forward. He said footage from these windows is crucial:
- 5:15 pm – 5:45 pm, Thursday 17 October
- 8:15 am – 8:45 am, Sunday 20 October
“We’re also keen to see CCTV and doorbell camera images,” said DCI Kimber. Material can be uploaded via the Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP).
How to Help
- Call Kent Police on 01622 652006 quoting ref 46/179489/24
- Contact Crimestoppers anonymously via 0800 555 111 or online
Police urge anyone with info to step up as they hunt for answers into the chilling disappearance that has rocked the Tunbridge Wells community.
