Police launch murder probe after body of man, aged 66, found in woodland off Cemetery Road on edge of Southampton Common

The woodland area has been closed off for much of the day, along with the car park, while police have been carrying out their work.

Officers have arrested seven people on suspicion of murder following the discovery in woodland off Cemetery Road yesterday evening.

An investigation was launched on Friday into the sudden disappearance of a 66-year-old man from Southampton, who had not been seen since 6.30am on Thursday.

Formal identification has not yet taken place.

The man’s next of kin has been informed a body has been found and are being supported by specialist officers.

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At this time this investigation is being treated as a murder enquiry. The seven people remain in police custody at this time.

They are six men aged 36, 34, 24, 20, 23 and 25 years and a 31-year-old woman, all from Southampton.

Cemetery Road and part of Southampton Common is currently cordoned off while enquiries are completed at the scene.

The police are appealing for witness. Det Chief Inspector Dave Morgan said today: “We are particularly keen to speak to anyone who was in the vicinity of Cemetery Road and who may have seen something unusual or suspicious between 12am on Thursday November 1 and 5pm on Saturday November 3.

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“Additionally, we would like hear from anyone who may have information that might assist this investigation.

“Please call 101 and quote Operation Experience or 44180412381.”

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 1111 and leave information anonymously.