A man has been charged with murder following the grim discovery of human remains in a Somerset village, in a case that has shocked the local community.
Charges Laid Following Village Discovery
Michael Bretton, aged 40, now faces charges of murder and one count of stalking involving fear of violence against a woman. He is scheduled to appear before the court tomorrow. The charges come after a police search in the Roemead Road area of Gurney Slade led to the discovery of remains believed to be those of 40-year-old Craig Hurcombe from Wiltshire.
Police Investigation and Family Support
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Neil Meade, stated that the thoughts of the force were with Craig's family during this incredibly difficult time. He confirmed that the family continues to receive support from specially-trained officers and requested privacy on their behalf.
DCI Meade also thanked the family for their support with the enquiries so far and recognised the ongoing efforts of officers and staff from Avon and Somerset, Wiltshire, and Dorset police forces. Their investigation led to the Crown Prosecution Service authorising the murder charge against Bretton.
While enquiries continue in the area, police have moved to reassure the Gurney Slade community. "We do not believe there is any risk to the public," DCI Meade emphasised.
Ongoing Process and Public Appeal
A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police confirmed that a Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) page has been created for the investigation. This allows anyone with information or footage to report it directly to the force via their website.
In a standard procedural move, a mandatory referral is being made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) on the grounds of a death occurring following previous police contact.
The investigation remains active as authorities work to establish the full circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.
