Police have launched a fresh appeal to identify a man found dead in Southampton earlier this year, releasing a digital e-fit image of the deceased who bore distinctive tattoos including a top-hatted skull and a phoenix.
The unidentified man’s body was discovered in undergrowth near the A35 on The Avenue, close to its junction with Burgess Road, on Friday, April 19. Despite extensive investigations spanning several months, authorities have been unable to determine his identity.
Detective Constable Holly Gillespie said: “We appreciate that the discovery of the man’s body was some time ago now, however, despite our best efforts, we have been unable to identify the deceased. I want to urge people to think carefully about their neighbours or people they see regularly in Portswood or the surrounding area.”
The man is described as:
- White, approximately 60 years old
- Skinny build, around 5ft 8ins tall
- Short grey/white hair with a long grey beard
- Found wearing a red hoody and dark-coloured t-shirt
- Carrying two pairs of trousers and a walking stick
Particularly notable were his distinctive tattoos:
- A shaded skull wearing a top hat on his upper left arm
- A phoenix design on the inside of the same arm
- A flower with a ribbon-wrapped heart on his right arm
Investigating officers have conducted extensive enquiries since April, including consultations with homeless shelters, Street Pastors, and neighbouring police forces regarding missing persons reports. However, these efforts have yet to yield any positive identification.
“Maybe you haven’t seen someone in the last few months that you regularly see in and around the local area and matches the description of the deceased,” DC Gillespie added. “Anything that comes to mind, no matter how small you think it may be, we want to hear from you, as it could be vital in allowing us to make contact with this man’s family.”
While the death is not being treated as suspicious, police are keen to inform any next of kin. Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101, quoting reference 44240164627.
