Police Renew Appeal After Body Found on Southampton Common

Detectives from Hampshire Constabulary’s Major Crime Team are continuing their investigation following the discovery of a man’s body on Southampton Common last Wednesday (8 October).

Officers have remained at the scene over the past week, conducting extensive searches and speaking with members of the public who regularly use the Common. The body was found in a wooded area close to the wildlife reserve in the centre of the park — north of the Ornamental Lake and to the right of Green Path.

Police have now confirmed that the deceased is believed to be an adult man, and efforts are underway to identify him and establish the circumstances surrounding his death.

Detective Chief Inspector Matt Gillooly, who is leading the investigation, said:

“Our team are working extremely hard now to identify who the man is, and what his final movements were prior to his death, so that we can provide his family and community with the support and explanation they deserve at a very difficult time.

The death of anyone in such circumstances is a tragedy, and we are focused on establishing the circumstances that led to our discovery last week.

As we continue our enquiries, we are keen to hear from anyone who may be able to assist. I believe the local community could have vital information.”

DCI Gillooly added that there was evidence of a fire at the scene and urged anyone who may have seen smoke or flames in that part of the Common in recent months to come forward.

As part of their investigation, officers are appealing for anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage recorded between 1am and 3.30am on 6 September, covering The Avenue, University Road, Burgess Road, Hill Lane, or surrounding streets, to contact them.

Police are also interested in hearing from runners, cyclists, or local residents who may have captured footage on GoPro or other cameras in or around the Common.

“When the body was found, it was located in a remote, overgrown area, away from the main footpath,” DCI Gillooly said. “If you have any footage or recall anything unusual, please let us know. Even a small detail could be crucial.”

Anyone with information or relevant footage can submit it via https://orlo.uk/U2rMi, call 101 quoting reference 44250456238, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.