Human remains found wrapped in plastic at a nature reserve in Greater Manchester are those of a man older than 40 and who had been dead for only a matter of days, police said.
A murder investigation was launched after the remains were discovered in the Kersal Wetlands on Thursday evening.
In an update, Greater Manchester police said:“Forensic examinations on Friday afternoon have determined that the victim is a man – likely to be aged older than 40 and who has only been deceased for a matter of days. Further inquiries – including DNA tests – are ongoing to help try to identify him.”
Chief Supt Tony Creely, the district commander for Salford, said: “This is a tragic case which is moving at pace and, thanks to forensic tests, we are able to confirm that the victim is a man who could not have survived.
“At the heart of our investigation is this man and his family. We are using all forensic techniques available to identify him as soon as we can so we are able to support his loved ones during this devastating time.
“I would like to thank the public for their cooperation in the last few days. The presence of our officers and specialist teams will have caused disruption in the local area – and may continue to for some time yet – but we value any information they have been able to pass to us.
“There remain a number of unknowns around this case, but we are working diligently and respectfully to provide answers as soon as we are able. This will take time and we will continue to provide updates of significance when we can.”
Anyone who thinks they may have witnessed something suspicious in the Kersal Dale area over the past few daysis asked to call 101.
Details can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.