Police want to hear from anyone who has footage from the Gurney Slade area as they search for Craig Hurcombe. Pictures: Avon & Somerset Police

Michael Bretton charged with murder of missing Craig Hurcombe

Paul JonesJanuary 16, 20260 Comment0

SHAFTESBURY man Michael Bretton has been charged with the murder of missing Craig Hurcombe.

Bretton, 40, of Armoury Road, Shaftesbury, faces a charge of murder and one count of stalking involving fear of violence against a woman.

He has been remanded to appear at Bristol Magistrates’ Court today (January 16).

Human remains, which police believe to be those of 40-year-old Mr Hurcombe, from Wiltshire, have been found following searches in the Roemead Road area of Gurney Slade, Somerset.

“While formal identification is yet to take place, we have informed Craig’s next of kin who will continue to be supported. A post-mortem will take place in due course,” an Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson said.

Mr Hurcombe was reported missing to Wiltshire Police at 10.45am on Saturday, January 10, having last been seen on New Year’s Day.

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Neil Meade, said: “Our thoughts are with Craig’s family during this incredibly difficult time. They continue to receive support from specially-trained officers, and, on their behalf, we request privacy for them. I would also like to thank them for their support with our enquiries so far.

“I would like to recognise the ongoing efforts of officers and staff from Avon and Somerset, Wiltshire and Dorset who have been involved in this investigation, which has led to the Crown Prosecution Service authorising Bretton is charged with murder.

“While enquiries continue to be carried out in the area, we would like to reassure the community that we do not believe there is any risk to the public.”

Officers have set up a Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) page – at https://mipp.police.uk/operation/5225T12-PO1 – to allow anyone with information or footage to report it.

A mandatory referral is being made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) on the grounds of a death occurring following previous police contact.

“We please ask people not to speculate or publish any imagery, material or commentary which could prejudice future court proceedings,” the spokesperson added.