Human remains found by country lane in search for missing man

Human remains have been discovered during a search for a missing man who vanished on New Year’s Day.

Craig Hurcombe, 40, was last seen in the Gurney Slade area in Somerset at around 6.20pm.

He was reported missing to Wiltshire Police at 10.45am on Saturday, January 10 and the case was later transferred to Avon and Somerset Police.

Late last night, human remains were found in the Gurney Slade area during searches for Craig by the force’s specialist officers.

Forensics were seen erecting a tent on the side of a narrow country lane on Thursday.

On Monday, January 12, a man in his 40s was arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody.

Although no formal identification has taken place, the police have informed Craig’s next of kin, who are being supported by specialist officers.

Following the discovery, the police are now treating the investigation as a murder inquiry.

Anyone with dashcam footage from Roemead Road, Roemead Lane, Simbriss Road, Pound Lane, Galley Batch Lane and Golf Links Lane from between 6pm on January 1 and 2am on January 2 are urged to contact the police.

Police are also appealing for people with dashcam footage in Roemead Road from 11pm on December 30, 2025 until 2am on December 31, 2025.

Neighbouring Policing CI Andy Pritchard said: ‘The family of Craig Hurcombe have been informed of the discovery, and it is impossible to comprehend the pain they will be feeling.

‘Our thoughts are with them, and we will continue to provide them with updates and support through our specially-trained officers. 

‘We ask people to respect Craig’s loved ones’ privacy during this incredibly difficult time. 

‘The Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT) are leading on this investigation and will continue to work through the day and night to establish the facts of this case.

‘The formal identification process has not yet been completed, and a post-mortem examination will also be conducted in due course.  

‘There will be an increased police presence in the area in the coming days, and we urge anyone with concerns to please speak to us, however we’d like to reassure people we are not aware of there being any increased risk to public safety. 

‘We will continue to provide updates to the public as our investigation progresses.’

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