A murder investigation has been launched by the Metropolitan Police after human remains were discovered by a member of the public in a south-west London woodland on August 12, according to reports from the PA news agency and independent outlets. Investigators believe the victim is a woman aged between 25 and 45.
Discovery of Remains at Bedfont Lakes Country Park
According to the Metropolitan Police, authorities received a call at 6.35pm on August 12 after human bones were found in woodland adjacent to Padstow Walk in Feltham. The location is known locally as ‘The Pits’ and sits within Bedfont Lakes Country Park.
Postmortem Examination and Murder Investigation Launch
Subsequent forensic examinations confirmed the bones are human, prompting a postmortem examination on August 17. Following the results of that examination, detectives officially upgraded the inquiry to a murder investigation. Authorities stated that it remains unclear how long the remains had been at the woodland location, and active inquiries are ongoing to establish the victim’s identity.
Police Appeal and Ongoing Scene Restrictions
Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley, who is leading the investigation, said that officers are working to establish the full circumstances of the death while keeping an open mind. According to the Metropolitan Police, a crime scene remains in place at Padstow Walk and is expected to stay cordoned off for a number of weeks while forensic teams continue their inquiries. Police have urged anyone with information that could assist in identifying the woman or clarifying the circumstances of her death to contact police on 101 quoting CAD 6452/12AUG, or to reach out anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
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