Police searching for missing teenager Gaia Pope have discovered a woman’s body near Swanage. The body was found just after 3pm on Saturday, 18 November 2017, close to the coastal path and a field where some of Gaia’s clothes were recovered two days earlier.
Detective Superintendent Paul Kessell of Dorset Police’s Major Crime Investigation Team said, “Although the body has yet to be formally identified, we are confident it is Gaia. Her family have been informed and are receiving full support from specially trained officers.”
He added, “Our thoughts are with her family and friends during this traumatic time. They have asked for privacy and no further media releases will be made for now.”
Regarding the ongoing investigation, Kessell stated, “The coroner has been notified, and forensic examinations will continue to determine the circumstances surrounding Gaia’s death, which remains unexplained.”
He also thanked the community and volunteers for their support: “Thanks to public support and tips, we have recovered all the clothing Gaia was believed to be wearing when she disappeared. We no longer need the public to assist with searches.”
The search operation was led by Dorset Police and supported by specialist teams including Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue, Coastguard, National Search Advisors, NPAS helicopter, Dorset Search & Rescue, Wessex 4×4, and the Search & Rescue Dogs Association. Local volunteers also coordinated with police efforts.
“Our thanks go to partner agencies and volunteers whose combined efforts have led to today’s developments,” said Kessell.
Earlier this week, two men aged 19 and 49, and a 71-year-old woman, all from Swanage and known to Gaia, were arrested on suspicion of murder. They have since been released under investigation as inquiries continue.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Dorset Police via their website at www.dorset.police.uk, email [email protected], or call 101 quoting incident number 18:128. Alternatively, tips can be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
Originally published by UKNIP.
