A suspect has been charged with murder and stalking after human remains believed to belong to missing Wiltshire man Craig Hurcombe.
The discovery was made in the Gurney Slade area of Somerset late on Wednesday (14 January) by specialist officers involved in the search for the 40-year-old.
Earlier in the day forensics were observed examining a digger and the ground in a copse behind the HGV operator’s yard where lorry driver Craig kept his vehicle.
Later, police are understood to have located human remains elsewhere in the vicinity.
Formal identification has not yet taken place, but Craig’s next of kin have been informed and are being supported by family liaison officers.
Craig was last seen in the Gurney Slade area at around 6.20pm on Thursday 1 January, but was only reported missing on 10 January.
Michael Bretton, 40, of Armoury Road in Shaftesbury, Dorset, has been charged with murder and one count of stalking involving fear of violence against a woman.
He has been remanded to appear at Bristol Magistrates’ Court today (Friday).
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Neil Meade, said: “Our thoughts are with Craig’s family during this incredibly difficult time.
“They continue to receive support from specially-trained officers, and, on their behalf, we request privacy for them. I would also like to thank them for their support with our enquiries so far.
“I would like to recognise the ongoing efforts of officers and staff from Avon and Somerset, Wiltshire and Dorset who have been involved in this investigation, which has led to the Crown Prosecution Service authorising Bretton is charged with murder.
“While enquiries continue to be carried out in the area, we would like to reassure the community that we do not believe there is any risk to the public.”
A mandatory referral is being made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct on the grounds of a death occurring following previous police contact.
