Police have confirmed the identification of the body discovered in Sunderland Cemetery.
Stephen Simmons was last seen in Pallion’s Saint Luke’s Terrace neighborhood on Thursday, April 6.
Police have identified the body discovered in a Sunderland cemetery as missing person Stephen Simmons.
On Sunday, September 24, Northumbria Police were summoned to Bishopwearmouth Cemetery in Sunderland after a body was discovered there. Officers remained on the scene all week, and formal identification has now taken place, confirming that the body is that of Stephen.
The 62-year-old was last seen in Pallion’s Saint Luke’s Terrace neighbourhood on Thursday, April 6, and was reported missing after failing to come home or contact his family. Officers scoured the surrounding neighborhood, checking CCTV and doing door-to-door inquiries as part of the inquiry.
During this difficult period, his family has been informed and is being assisted by specially trained officials. Police believe there was no third-party involvement in his death, and a report will be filed with the coroner.
Northumbria Police Superintendent Rob Bosson stated, “This is an incredibly tragic outcome, and our thoughts are with Stephen’s family and loved ones at this difficult time.”
“We will continue to offer them support and ask that their privacy be respected as they deal with this tragic news.” Following Stephen’s disappearance earlier this year, a number of inquiries and pleas were launched in an attempt to find him.
“We have continued to investigate the case and pursue new leads, but we now know that the body discovered in Sunderland is, sadly, Stephen.”
“This is not the outcome we had hoped for.” I’d want to thank everyone who kept sharing information with us, as well as the many police, partners, and volunteers who helped with searches and inquiries. Your help is much appreciated.”
