Human remains have been discovered in a secluded part of Somerset during a police search for a 40-year-old man who went missing at the start of the new year.
Discovery in a Country Lane
Craig Hurcombe was last seen in the Gurney Slade area of Somerset at approximately 6.20pm on New Year's Day, 1 January 2026. He was reported missing to Wiltshire Police on the morning of Saturday, 10 January, with the case later transferred to Avon and Somerset Police.
Late on Wednesday night, specialist officers searching for Craig made the grim discovery of human remains in the same rural area. Forensic teams were subsequently seen erecting a tent on the side of a narrow country lane on Thursday.
Murder Investigation Launched
Although formal identification is yet to be completed, police have informed Craig Hurcombe's next of kin of the discovery. They are being supported by specially-trained officers.
Following the find, the investigation is now being treated as a murder inquiry. A man in his 40s was arrested on suspicion of murder on Monday, 12 January, and remains in police custody.
Neighbourhood Policing Chief Inspector 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."
He urged the public to respect the privacy of Craig's loved ones during this difficult time.
Critical Appeal for Dashcam Footage
The Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT) is leading the inquiry and has issued a specific appeal for information from motorists. Detectives are keen to obtain any dashcam footage from several local lanes during key timeframes.
They are requesting footage from:
- Roemead Road, Roemead Lane, Simbriss Road, Pound Lane, Galley Batch Lane, and Golf Links Lane between 6pm on 1 January and 2am on 2 January 2026.
- Roemead Road specifically from 11pm on 30 December 2025 until 2am on 31 December 2025.
CI Pritchard added: "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. We'd like to reassure people we are not aware of there being any increased risk to public safety."
A post-mortem examination will be conducted in due course as the investigation continues.
