Tragic Discovery Near Swanage: Body Found in Search for Missing Teen Gaia Pope
Police hunting for missing teenager Gaia Pope have found a woman’s body near Swanage. The grim discovery came just after 3pm on Saturday, 18 November 2017, close to the coastal path and a field where some of Gaia’s clothes were found two days earlier.
Police Confident Body Is Gaia Pope
Detective Superintendent Paul Kessell of Dorset Police’s Major Crime Investigation Team said: “Although the body has yet to be formally identified, we are confident it is Gaia. Her family have been informed and are receiving full support from specially trained officers.”
He added, “Our thoughts are with her family and friends during this traumatic time. They have asked for privacy and no further media releases will be made for now.”
Investigation Ongoing as Forensics Take Over
“The coroner has been notified,” Kessell said, “and forensic examinations will continue to determine the circumstances surrounding Gaia’s death, which remains unexplained.”
He thanked the community and volunteers for their enormous help: “Thanks to public support and tips, we have recovered all the clothing Gaia was believed to be wearing when she disappeared. We no longer need the public to assist with searches.”
Massive Search Effort Involved Police and Volunteers
- Dorset Police led the search operation.
- Supported by specialist teams including Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue, Coastguard, National Search Advisors, NPAS helicopter, Dorset Search & Rescue, Wessex 4×4 and Search & Rescue Dogs Association.
- Local volunteers coordinated with police efforts.
“Our thanks go to partner agencies and volunteers whose combined efforts have led to today’s developments,” said Kessell.
Three Arrested and Released on Suspicion of Murder
Earlier this week, two men aged 19 and 49, and a 71-year-old woman, all from Swanage and known to Gaia, were arrested on suspicion of murder. They have since been released under investigation as inquiries continue.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Dorset Police via their website www.dorset.police.uk, email [email protected], or call 101 quoting incident number 18:128.
Alternatively, provide tips anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
