New human remains discovered after torso found wrapped in plastic at nature reserve

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Police have discovered more human remains in two locations after widening a murder investigation in a nature reserve in Salford following the discovery of a torso.

In a news conference early on Sunday, police revealed they had extended their search area to include four different spots after “uncovering more intelligence” relating to the investigation.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) launched the case after a civilian found a torso wrapped in clear plastic at Kersal Wetlands in Salford on 4 April. The victim was believed to be a white male older the age of 40, who had been dead for a matter of days.

Two men, aged 42 and 68, were arrested on suspicion of murder earlier this week, while a 20-year-old man previously arrested was released on bail pending inquiries. Officers have also searched a property in Worsley Road, Winton, where they believe the victim and the two suspects lived.

In their latest update, the GMP said they believe the torso belonged to a man in his 60s and they have informed his family about his death.

The subsequent remains were found by officers at Blackleach Reservoir and a dog walker at Linnyshaw Colliery Wood, both in Salford, on Sunday and Saturday evening respectively

Earlier, Detective Superintendent Lewis Hughes, of GMP’s Serious Crime Division, said they had “uncovered more intelligence” and were expanding their search to include four scenes.

They included Worsley Road, Blackleach Reservoir, Linnyshaw Colliery Wood and Mitchell Street in Bury.

“As we close the net further on this investigation and uncover more intelligence, I want to reassure our communities we are doing everything in our power to ensure we obtain every bit of available evidence,” he said.

“Our investigation so far has been a far-reaching and painstaking process, trawling through hundreds of hours of CCTV alongside recording several accounts from the public around the circumstances.

“The four scenes in place are to make sure we investigate thoroughly and continue with our good progress and remain committed to keeping you updated as and when we make further developments.”

Hundreds of officers, as well as divers and search dogs, have been combing the area by the nearby River Irwell since the torso was discovered.

The victim’s identity was unclear for quite some time, despite a scan of DNA databases. Police previously said the remains, which include the bottom of the back, buttocks and thigh, had no distinguishing marks. They have informed his next of kin after discovering his identity this weekend.

DS Hughes said: “I also recognise the details of this case will have been particularly distressing for the people of Salford and beyond, including our officers who have worked diligently to progress this investigation, and most importantly, to the man’s heartbroken family.

“Local officers will continue to patrol the affected areas and we will provide updates when we have information.”

The two suspects are currently in extended custody. The 42-year-old was arrested as officers boarded a bus in Eccles Old Road on Friday. The older suspect was arrested at a property nearby.

Additional reporting by PA