New clues found in M54 body mystery
New clues have today emerged over the identity of a man whose body was found near a slip road of the M54.
West Mercia Police detectives hope images of a jacket and a bracelet similar to those found beside the motorway in Telford will help the public identify the man.
Inquiries into the discovery of a skull and other remains, made by a road worker on August 20, have established that they belonged to a male thought to be aged between 30 and 49.
A full DNA profile of the man has been obtained and detectives believe he was between 5ft 7in and 5ft 11in.
It is thought the body had remained undiscovered for at least three years, and the man is now known to have been wearing a black 'dare2be' outdoor jacket, a navy blue George at Asda T-shirt, and dark-coloured Nike tracksuit bottoms.
He was also found in possession of two bracelets, including one thought to be a 'Kara' bangle usually worn by Sikhs.
Detective Chief Inspector Neil Jamieson, who is leading the investigation for West Mercia Police, said: "I am very keen to get members of the public to assist me and my team in identifying this individual.
"It has taken some considerable time for us to piece together a description of this individual.
"We have been working closely with the National Crime Agency, forensic experts including anthropologists, ondontologists and the forensic pathologist."
The remains were discovered just off the eastbound slip road at junction four for Priorslee and Shifnal across the carriageway from the motorway services.
The skull was found around 50 yards from the slip road, down a steep bank and in heavy undergrowth.
DCI Jamieson admitted that the task facing officers was challenging.
He added: "Since this discovery we have been contacted by a number of people regarding missing individuals, some of whom have never been reported missing to the police.
"At this stage of the investigation we are still unable to ascertain the cause of his death.
"We are keeping an open mind as to how the man came to be in such a location and how he died; however, I cannot rule out that he may have been subjected to a crime, and that is something the public can help me with.
"The metal bracelets are obviously a line of inquiry and as such we have been in contact with our Sikh community locally to share this and again ask for any information as to who this man is.
"It is essential that we do all we can to identify him and return him to his family and loved ones."
The M54 slip road was closed for around 24 hours once the skull was discovered. Officers then closed the slip road again in September for several days, while officers carried out further investigations.
It was during this search further human remains were discovered .
At an inquest in Shrewsbury, which opened on September 7, Shropshire coroner, John Ellery said the cause of death was not found during a post mortem on the remains.
The coroner adjourned the inquest until December 2.
Anyone with information regarding the possible identity of the man is urged to contact the West Mercia Police Investigation Unit based in Telford by dialling 101.
