Further update on Leah Croucher investigation – Furzton, Milton Keynes

Thames Valley Police is today (12/10) providing a further update following information received relating to a property in Loxbeare Drive, Furzton, on Monday.

We are now in a position to confirm that, very sadly, we have located human remains at the property in connection with the Leah Croucher investigation.

Following a call from a member of the public on Monday, specialist officers and forensic teams attended the location.

A number of items that were linked to Leah were found at the scene.

During our ongoing forensic examinations at the scene, we have identified human remains.

The forensic examination continues and will do for some time.

It is likely to take some time to formally identify the deceased.

Leah’s family continue to be kept informed and updated.

We ask the media to respect their privacy at this very difficult time.

Head of Crime for Thames Valley Police, Detective Chief Superintendent Ian Hunter, said: “Clearly this is a very significant update in our enquiries and as a result, we have launched a murder investigation, led by our Major Crime Unit.

“Throughout the course of the last three and a half years, we have made numerous appeals for information and we are grateful to those who have been able to assist.

“But I am now making a renewed, and specific appeal, to anybody who believes that they may have been in the area of Loxbeare Drive on or around 15 February 2019 and has any information which may be relevant to please get in touch with Thames Valley Police.

“I appreciate the passage of time that has passed, but we remain hopeful that somebody may have a crucial piece of information particularly given this significant development today.

“It may be that you have CCTV in the area. If you have any footage from around the time of Leah’s disappearance, please check this and contact us on 101, or online quoting reference number 43190049929.

“No matter how insignificant you believe any information you may have will be, please contact us. Your information could prove critical in this investigation.

“For 100% anonymity, you can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

"This remains a difficult and challenging scene and there continues to be a scene-watch in place at the address while this investigation continues.

“We are committed to ensuring that our enquiries at the scene are thorough and respectful, therefore we could be at the scene for some time.

“Our thoughts remain with Leah’s family and friends at what is naturally a very distressing time for them.

“We would appeal to the media and the public to please respect the privacy of Leah’s family and friends and would add that speculation is extremely distressing to them.”

KB