Police investigate skeletal remains found near A617 Rainworth Bypass

Nottinghamshire Police launched an investigation after suspected human skeletal remains were found in woodland by the a617 Rainworth Bypass shortly before 15:00 BST on Saturday. A cordon went up soon after members of the public made the discovery near Rainworth Bypass, and the scene stayed active on Sunday.

Detective Inspector Matt Scott said the remains are believed to be from one person and that the identity has yet to be established. He said the incident poses no risk to public safety, while officers continue inquiries into how the body came to be there and what happened.

Rainworth Bypass cordon

Forensic teams remained at the scene on Sunday, and one lane of the eastbound carriageway was coned off. Scott said the investigation is still at an early stage and that the remains are being treated with care as officers gather more information about the death.

He also said the scene will be guarded by police officers for a number of days while work continues. Residents can expect to see an increased police presence in the area over the bank holiday weekend and into next week.

Matt Scott statement

Scott told residents that any discovery of human remains is taken extremely seriously. He said: “Whilst the investigation is still in its early stages, following inquiries carried out so far, I can confirm that the remains we have found are believed to be of one person.”

He added: “The identity of this person is yet to be established” and “A thorough investigation is being carried out and we are keeping an open mind at this time.” He also said: “It is important for me to stress that this is also likely to take us some time yet.”

Police are now balancing a scene that must stay guarded with the practical effect on road users near Rainworth Bypass. For nearby residents, the clearest next step is a continued police presence rather than a quick closure of the inquiry.