Human remains have been uncovered in the village of Gurney Slade, Somerset, as part of an ongoing search for Craig Hurcombe, a 40-year-old man reported missing on January 10. The discovery, made late on Wednesday, January 14, has prompted police to launch a formal murder investigation.
Craig Hurcombe was last seen around 6:20 pm on New Year’s Day in the Gurney Slade area. Initially reported missing to Wiltshire Police, the case was transferred to Avon and Somerset Police on January 12. Since then, a man in his 40s has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody.
Although identification of the remains is still pending, Craig’s family has been informed and is receiving support from specially trained officers. The police urge the public to respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time.
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Authorities are appealing for anyone with dashcam or doorbell footage from the vicinity—specifically Roemead Road, Roemead Lane, Simbriss Road, Pound Lane, Galley Batch Lane, and Golf Links Lane—between 6 pm on January 1 and 2 pm on January 2 to come forward. They are also seeking footage from Roemead Road between 11 pm on December 30 and 2 am on December 31, 2025.
Neighbourhood Policing Chief Inspector Andy Pritchard expressed condolences to the family and assured the public that the Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT) is leading the inquiry with around-the-clock efforts. He confirmed that a post-mortem examination will be conducted following formal identification, and reassured the community that there is no known increased risk to public safety. Increased police presence will be maintained in the area over the coming days.
Avon and Somerset Police have deployed multiple specialist units in the search, including search dogs, drones, and forensic experts. Extensive CCTV, forensic analysis, and house-to-house inquiries are ongoing, with officers seeking information from drivers of vehicles spotted in the area during the specified time frames. Due to the nature of the investigation, the Professional Standards Department has also been notified.