Metropolitan Police detectives have launched a formal murder investigation after human remains were discovered in woodland adjacent to Padstow Walk, Feltham, prompting a cordon and searches in a popular green space in south‑west London.
Discovery and initial inquiries
Officers were alerted after a member of the public found bones in the area at approximately 6.35pm on 12 August. Subsequent examinations have confirmed the remains are human and are believed to be those of a woman aged roughly 25 to 45.
A post‑mortem examination took place on 17 August, and the inquiry was upgraded to a murder investigation as detectives seek to determine how long the remains had been at the site and the circumstances surrounding the death.
Police response and public appeals
A crime scene has been established in the woodland known locally as ‘The Pits’ and is expected to remain in place for several weeks while forensic and investigative work continues. Local roads near the site have seen a visible police presence as officers carry out enquiries.
"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,"
The appeal for information has been issued to the public. Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley, who is leading the investigation, urged anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist in identifying the victim and establishing what occurred.
How you can help
Police have asked anyone who believes they may have information to contact them directly or to use the independent anonymous service. Reporters of sightings, unusual activity or knowledge of missing persons who fit the age range are being asked to make contact.
- Contact the Metropolitan Police on 101 quoting CAD 6452/12AUG
- To remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
- A crime scene in the woodland will be in place for several weeks while enquiries continue
Known timeline
| Date / time | Event |
|---|---|
| 12 August, c. 6.35pm | Member of the public reports bones found near Padstow Walk |
| 17 August | Post‑mortem examination carried out; investigation upgraded to murder inquiry |
Local impact and context
The woodland is frequented by residents for walking and recreation. Officers have taped off sections of the area to preserve potential evidence. The presence of an active murder inquiry is likely to be a cause of concern among neighbours and regular visitors, who will be watching for updates from detectives.
Detectives have stated they are keeping an open mind about the circumstances of the death. At this stage, there is no public information about any arrests linked to the discovery, nor confirmation of how long the remains were present in the woodland.
Investigators are likely to be employing a range of techniques to establish identity, including forensic analysis and enquiries into missing persons reports that could correspond with the estimated age range. The public are urged to check any personal records or recollections that might assist the investigation and to contact police if they notice anything they believe could be relevant.
What happens next
Police will continue forensic work within the cordoned area, interview potential witnesses and review local CCTV and other records. The length of the inquiry will depend on forensic results and whether lines of enquiry identify further evidence or persons of interest.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Metropolitan Police on 101 quoting CAD 6452/12AUG, or to provide information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
