Dismembered body parts found at a Salford nature reserve belong to a man ‘likely to be older than 40’, detectives have revealed. Police say they are now using ‘all forensic techniques available’ to identify the victim and inform his family, as a major murder probe continues.
The gruesome discovery was made at Kersal Wetlands on Thursday afternoon when a passer-by reported an ‘unknown item’ wrapped in plastic. It was later confirmed to be a human torso.
Forensic investigators, search teams and the dog unit have been ‘working round the clock’ and remain at the scene, but so far no other remains have been discovered. Police say the man had been deceased for a ‘only matter of days’.
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Further enquiries – including DNA tests – are being carried out in a bid to identify the victim. In an update on Saturday, Chief Supt Tony Creely, district commander for Salford, said: “This is a tragic case which is moving at pace and, thanks to forensic tests, we are able to confirm that the victim is a man who could not have survived.
“At the heart of our investigation is this man and his family. We are using all forensic techniques available to identify him as soon as we can so we are able to support his loved ones during this devastating time.
“I would like to thank the public for their cooperation in the last few days. The presence of our officers and specialist teams will have caused disruption in the local area – and may continue to for some time yet – but we value any information they have been able to pass to us.
“There remain a number of unknowns around this case, but we are working diligently and respectfully to provide answers as soon as we are able. This will take time and we will continue to provide updates of significance when we can.”
Anyone who thinks they may have witnessed something suspicious in the Kersal Dale area over the last few days, could be key to unlocking what happened is asked to come forward by calling 101 and quoting log number 2695 of 4 April 2024.
Details can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
William Turner is a seasoned U.K. correspondent with a deep understanding of domestic affairs. With a passion for British politics and culture, he provides insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of events within the United Kingdom.
