Human remains found in suitcases by Bristol's Clifton Suspension Bridge

The BBC's Steve Knibbs provides an update on the current information available.

Leigh Boobyer and Beth Cruse are sharing their thoughts and experiences on their blog.

Authorities are searching for a suspect following the discovery of two suitcases with human remains at the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol.

Law enforcement was contacted when a male carrying a suitcase was observed behaving in a questionable manner on the bridge right before midnight on Wednesday. Within a short time of officers getting to the scene, the male had departed, abandoning the suitcase.

Another bag was discovered close by shortly afterward.

Avon and Somerset Police stated that their first concern was to find the man and determine the identity of the human remains.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the man was brought to the bridge in a taxi, according to the authorities.

The taxi driver's car has been taken by the authorities and the driver is cooperating with law enforcement.

The streets on either side of the bridge are currently shut down.

A call was placed to the police at 11:57 PM British Summer Time on Wednesday.

The streets near the bridge and nearby sidewalks are currently off-limits as investigators are conducting a thorough examination of the area. These areas are anticipated to be closed for the entire day.

On Wednesday night, the authorities were able to follow the movements of the police helicopter as it flew over the bridge.

Police officers at the Bristol end of the Suspension Bridge are directing pedestrians to go back.

The visitor center is closed so that the police can keep investigating.

The police will release more details later today during a media briefing.

The top priority for Acting Bristol Commander Vicks Hayward-Melen is to find the person who brought the suitcases to the bridge, figure out who the deceased person is, and let their family know.

Highly trained officers are prepared to offer them assistance with anything they require.

She also mentioned that an autopsy would be conducted later in the day on Thursday.

Carla Denyer, the newly elected Green Member of Parliament for Bristol Central, expressed her deep concern and shock over the recent disturbing incident.

Discussing X, she mentioned: "Upsetting situations like this are disturbing for all of us who live in Bristol and take pride in our city."

She expressed gratitude to the police for their prompt response, mentioning that she was keeping in contact with the authorities.

There are more police officers patrolling the area right now.

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