Second Arrest in UK Mother's Disappearance and Death After Remains Found Following Wildfire
Police have made a second arrest in connection with the suspected murder of Joanne Sheen, whose remains were discovered seven years after she vanished, following a wildfire in London.
Authorities have arrested a second man on suspicion of murder in the case of Joanne Sheen, a mother of three who disappeared in December 2019. Her remains were found earlier this year by a member of the public near shrubland in Feltham, southwest London, an area affected by a wildfire.
Sheen, 44, was last seen on December 5, 2019, when she traveled from Fareham, Hampshire, to Southampton. She was reported missing by her family in February 2020 after they had not heard from her for several months. At the time of her disappearance, she was believed to be working as a sex worker in Southampton.
The discovery of her remains followed extensive forensic examination and DNA testing. Initially, the Metropolitan Police launched a murder investigation but later handed the case to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary.
On September 17, a 56-year-old man from Southampton was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder. He has since been bailed with conditions pending further inquiries. On Sunday, a second 56-year-old man from Southampton was re-arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder and also bailed with conditions.
In November 2020, police had arrested six individuals—five men and one woman—on suspicion of conspiracy to murder. However, by late 2021, all six were released with no further action due to insufficient evidence. This latest development signifies a new phase in the long-standing investigation.
Detective Chief Inspector Toby Elcock stated that the current arrests are a significant development, providing new lines of inquiry. He expressed hope that the identification of Sheen's remains will offer some answers to her family, who have shown immense strength throughout the investigation. The police remain committed to uncovering the full circumstances of Sheen's disappearance and holding those responsible accountable.
Authorities are appealing for anyone with information about Sheen's movements before she went missing or how she came to be in Feltham to come forward, emphasizing that the passage of time does not diminish the importance of such details. A reward of £20,000 has been reinstated by Crimestoppers for information provided anonymously.
The wildfire that affected the area where the remains were found occurred on August 5, damaging approximately two hectares of shrubland near Bedfont Lakes Country Park.