Appeal to identify man found deceased in Southampton in 2024

Officers investigating the non-suspicious death of a man in Southampton in 2024 are renewing their appeal for the public’s help in identifying him.

Police were called at around 6.50pm on Friday 19 April to reports that a man’s body had been located in undergrowth in a wooded area on the A35, The Avenue, close to the junction of Burgess Road.

Sadly, the man was pronounced dead at the scene and, despite extensive enquiries since then, we have so far been unable to identify him.

We previously released details of distinctive tattoos found on the man’s body. As part of our ongoing efforts, we are now releasing an e-fit image of the man, in the hope that someone may recognise him.

The man is described as:

• White
• Of skinny build
• Approximately 5ft 8ins tall
• Believed to be around 60 years old
• With short grey/white hair and a long grey beard

His tattoos include:

• A skull wearing a top hat on his upper left arm
• A phoenix on the inside of his left arm
• A flower with a ribbon-wrapped heart on his right arm

When he was found, the man was wearing:

• A red hoody
• A dark-coloured t-shirt
• Two pairs of trousers

He was also believed to use a walking stick, which was found in his possession.

Officers have carried out extensive enquiries since the man was discovered, including liaising with local homeless shelters, Street Pastors, and neighbouring police forces in relation to missing people reports. Unfortunately, these enquiries have not led to him being identified.

We are continuing to appeal to the public for help.

Anyone who believes they may recognise the man, or who may have information that can assist with our enquiries is asked to come forward. Please call 101, quoting reference 44240164627, or can also report online: https://www.hampshire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/

Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit https://crimestoppers-uk.org/