Burnt and dismembered body found in suitcase on Woodhead Pass

Detectives have launched a murder inquiry after the torso of a body was found in a suitcase in a lay-by off the A628, one of the main roads between Sheffield and Manchester. It was discovered just east of Tintwistle and north of Valehouse and Rhodeswood reservoirs on Monday.

The body itself was badly burnt and in order to establish the gender and identity of the person South Yorkshire police have asked for the public’s help, due to a lack of DNA match. A post mortem examination is yet to take place.

South Yorkshire Police have urged anyone who was in the area between 9pm and midnight on Sunday, October 9 to come forward.

They also want to speak to anyone who regularly travels along the A628 between Tintwistle and the Flounch roundabout to get in touch so their vehicles can be eliminated from the inquiry. Police would like drivers to call in with the make and model of their vehicle and the time that they made their journey.

Missing person databases are now being trawled through across the country and all UK police forces are being asked for assistance in the attempt to identify the victim.

The profile has now been sent to Europol as the victim may be a foreign national.

The investigation is being handled by East Midlands Special Operations Unit, and they are urging anyone who may have seen suspicious activity, such as someone setting a fire. The lay-by is used by ramblers and dog walkers and officers want to speak to anyone who has been in the area recently.

Detectives from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit are leading the investigation and a dedicated number has now been set up to take calls from across the country from people who want to come forward with information. This number is 0800 056 0944.