Man whose remains were found close to M54 formally identified
A man, whose remains were discovered close to the M54, has been formally identified as Surjit Takhar.
Surjit was aged 37 when he was reported missing from his home in Oldbury, West Midlands on Wednesday 8th October 2008. He was last seen by his family on Monday 29th September 2008. A detailed investigation was carried out at the time of his disappearance.
His remains were discovered on 20th August 2015, by maintenance workers at the bottom of an embankment, next to the slip road at Junction 4 of the M54 in Telford, Shropshire.
Following lengthy investigations and detailed forensic searches, West Mercia Police were able to establish a full DNA profile. After further analysis of the DNA and of Surjit's dental records, they were able to formally identify him.
Surjit's family have been informed, along with the Senior Coroner for Shropshire.
The cause of his death remains unknown, and the case continues to be dealt with as an unexplained death.
DCI Neil Jamieson, who is currently leading the investigation, said "Our thoughts are with Surjit's family at this very difficult time.
"We are continuing to investigate his death, and now that we have a formal identification, we are pursuing other lines of enquiry to establish what has happened. We remain open minded as to how he died.
"At the time Surjit was reported missing West Midlands Police carried out a significant investigation in to his disappearance. As such we have been working closely with them to get an understanding of the enquiry, to try and piece together why and how he would end up at this inaccessible and unusual location.
"We would like to thank everyone who has assisted us with our enquiries so far, and we would urge anyone who knows anything about Surjit's disappearance in 2008, including how he may have travelled to Telford, to contact police."
Anyone who may have any information at all which may assist with the investigation is urged to contact the West Mercia Major Investigation Room at Telford by calling 101.
Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous please contact the independent charity crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or by visiting the website www.crimestoppers.org
