Murder inquiry launched after wildfire reveals human remains in woodland

A murder probe has been launched after a wildfire revealed human remains discovered in woodland known as The Pits.

Officers were called on the evening of August 12 after bones, thought to belong to a woman aged between 25 and 45, were found near Padstow Walk in Feltham, south-west London. A post-mortem examination took place on Monday, the early findings of which prompted detectives to launch a murder investigation. Scotland Yard said officers are working to identify the woman and establish how long her remains had been there. A Metropolitan Police spokesman confirmed that the remains were found by a member of the public after the nearby land was affected by a recent wildfire. Shrubbery appeared to have been burned at a woodland area close to where the police crime scene was in place and a large patch of the ground was charred. An incident log on The London Fire Brigade’s website showed that four fire engines and around 25 firefighters had tackled a grass fire in the area on August 5. Around two hectares of shrubland were damaged in the blaze. The site is close to Bedfont Lakes Country Park. Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley, who is leading the investigation, said: “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. “I would urge anyone who has information that may assist us in identifying the victim and understanding the circumstances of her death to come forward and speak to us.” A crime scene is expected to be in place for a number of weeks while inquiries continue. Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 and quote CAD 6452/12AUG or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Published: 21/08/2026 by Radio NewsHub