Human remains found in suitcases in Bristol believed to be of 'two adult men' Met Police says as force takes over investigation

Witnesses described how the man, who arrived at the bridge in a taxi, was challenged after the "tatty" suitcase was seen to be leaking blood. He left the scene, reportedly chased by a cyclist, and made off in the direction of Leigh Woods, leaving the suitcase behind.

The force has released two pictures of a suspect, described as a black man with a beard, wearing a black Adidas baseball cap, black jeans, a black jacket and black trainers with thick white soles and carrying a black backpack.

Police have urged people not to approach him and to call 999 if he is sighted, but have said they are unaware of any current risk to the wider public.

Acting Bristol Commander Vicks Hayward-Melen said searches were continuing to locate the suspect.

She told BBC: "We’re still looking for him to speak with him about his presence on the bridge and the matters leading up to the suitcases being located.

"With regard to the officers and the initial attendance and then what they found inside, clearly a really horrendous discovery for them and we’re making sure we continue to support them."

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Clifton Suspension Bridge, a Grade I listed landmark which spans the Avon Gorge, was designed by noted Victorian engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel and opened in 1864.

Carla Denyer, the Green MP for Bristol Central, said on Thursday: "I am deeply disturbed by the horrifying discovery of human remains at Clifton Suspension Bridge overnight.

"Distressing events like this are unsettling for all of us who call Bristol home and are proud of our city."

She thanked the police for their work on the case.

Met Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine, who is leading the investigation, said: "Over the last 48 hours we have been working extremely closely with colleagues from Avon and Somerset. This work leads us to believe the man we need to speak to travelled to Bristol from London earlier on Wednesday evening (July 10).

"We are drawing on resources from across the Met to find and apprehend the suspect and I would urge anyone who believes they see him, or who knows of his whereabouts, to call 999 straight away. Do not approach him.

"We recognise this has caused significant concern to residents in the Clifton area and will cause concern among those who live and work in West London.

"Extra officers will be on patrol in the area over the coming days and I would encourage anyone with any concerns to speak to them."