London detectives have opened a murder investigation after human remains were uncovered in a west London country park following recent wildfires. A member of the public discovered the bones at Bedfont Lakes Country Park in Hounslow at about 18:35 BST on 12 August 2026, prompting a call to the Metropolitan Police.
A post-mortem examination determined the remains belonged to a woman aged between 25 and 45. The discovery was made in woodland near Padstow Walk, Feltham, an area locally known as 'The Pits', after grass fires had swept through the site earlier in the month. The London Fire Brigade had tackled a blaze on 5 August that damaged approximately two hectares of shrubland.
Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley is leading the investigation. Police have warned that a crime scene will remain in place for several weeks as forensic work continues.