Manhunt for ‘human remains’ found in suitcases at Clifton Suspension Bridge – latest updates

A traffic update was posted on the Clifton Suspension Bridge X page this morning.

It said: “Due to a police operation, the bridge and visitor center will be CLOSED to all traffic and pedestrians all day today (JULY 11). We apologize for the disruption.”

The roads surrounding the bridge and surrounding footpaths will remain closed on Thursday while specialist forensic officers examine the area. The roads are expected to remain closed throughout the day.

The Clifton Suspension Bridge visitor center is closed due to police operations, operators announced on social media.

An autopsy will take place later Thursday.

Avon and Somerset Police said their “immediate priority” was to find the man and identify the human remains.

Officers were called after a man was observed behaving suspiciously on the bridge at 11:57 p.m. on Wednesday.

They arrived at the crime scene within ten minutes, but the man had already left the crime scene and left the suitcase behind. A short time later, a second suitcase was found nearby.

Police said they found that “the man was taken to the bridge by taxi.”

Acting Bristol Commander Vicks Hayward-Melen said in a statement: “This vehicle has been impounded and the driver is assisting us with our investigation.”

The area where the suitcases were left was immediately searched by officers on site, Bristol Deputy Commander Vicks Hayward-Melen confirmed.

“Following the discovery of the suitcases, the area was immediately searched by ground officers with the assistance of the National Police Air Service and HM Coastguard. These searches are ongoing.

“Initial investigations have shown that the man was taken to the bridge in a taxi. This vehicle has been confiscated and the driver is assisting us with our investigations.”

“Specialized crime scene investigators are currently examining the bridge and the surrounding area. The bridge will remain closed during these investigations.

“A forensic autopsy will take place later today.

“There is currently an increased police presence in the area and anyone with concerns is asked to speak to an officer.”

Bristol Acting Commander Vicks Hayward-Melen said: “This is a very disturbing incident and I am fully aware of the concern it is causing in our community.

“The investigation is being led by our Serious Crime Investigation Team and involves specialist officers and staff from across the organisation.

“Our immediate priority is to locate the man who brought the suitcases onto the bridge, identify the deceased and inform his next of kin.

“Professionals are on hand to provide them with any support they need.”

A manhunt was launched after two suitcases full of human remains were left on the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol.

Police said they were called at 11:57 p.m. on Wednesday to a man behaving suspiciously on the bridge.

The officers arrived within ten minutes, but the man had already left and left a suitcase behind. A short time later, a second suitcase was found.

In both cases there were human remains, police said.