Metropolitan Police have launched a murder investigation after human remains, believed to belong to a woman aged between 25 and 45, were discovered in a woodland area in Feltham, southwest London. The discovery was made by a member of the public on August 12 in a patch of woods known locally as The Pitts, located off Padstow Walk.
Following a post-mortem examination on August 17, detectives confirmed the launch of a murder inquiry. The woodland area, situated near Bedfont Lakes Country Park, has been cordoned off, with police tape and a police vehicle remaining at the scene as the investigation continues. Officers are focused on identifying the woman and determining how long the remains had been in the park.
Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley stated that the investigation is proceeding with an open mind. "We have launched a murder investigation following the discovery of these remains and are working to establish the full circumstances of what happened while keeping an open mind," Jolley said. He appealed to the public for any information that could assist in identifying the victim and understanding the circumstances of her death.
Information can be provided to the police by calling 101 and quoting CAD 6452/12AUG, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Speculation on social media has suggested that recent wildfires may have unearthed the remains, but this has not been confirmed by the Metropolitan Police or the London Fire Brigade.