Forest of Dean unidentified body

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The Forest of Dean unidentified body is that of a woman found hidden in two suitcases near the England–Wales border in May 2020. 

Investigation- 

Discovery: 

The investigation began after a member of the public reported their suspicions to police about a car being driven erratically on the A4136 road near Coleford in the Forest of Dean. Police located the car a short while later and they spoke to two people. Two suitcases containing human remains were found, two people arrested and a vehicle seized. The remains were found around 11:30pm. 

Search: 

A search began of Stowfield quarry and the village of Staunton. There was a large police presence in the area, a police helicopter and several roads were closed. Road closures on the A4136 are expected to remain until Friday 15 May 2020. 

Police statements: 

Detective chief inspector John Turner, the senior investigating officer, said "The nature of this incident is distressing and we’re working around the clock to fully understand what has happened. Someone’s life has been lost and our priority is to identify the victim and get answers for her family. Searches have taken place in the surrounding area for evidence-gathering and no remains have been found as part of these searches. Our major crime investigation team is working in collaboration with the West Midlands police homicide team to carry out further enquiries." On Thursday 14 May 2020 a Gloucestershire police spokesman said "Officers have been granted a 36-hour magistrates’ extension to continue questioning two people who were arrested on suspicion of murder. Overnight a 12-hour custody extension had been granted for both the woman aged in her 20s and from Birmingham and the man aged in his 30s and from Wolverhampton. The further 36-hour extension was granted at around midday today and means they can remain in custody for further questioning. Due to the ongoing investigation, road closures and scene guards are likely to remain in place. Gloucestershire constabulary would like to thank local residents and those impacted by the cordons for their patience during this time." 

Impact: 

Key workers had to find detours around the closed roads and some thought that the roadblocks were to stop people travelling from England to Wales to exercise. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic in Wales people are only allowed to exercise in their own area.