A long-running missing-person investigation in England has taken a major turn after human remains discovered in a west London woodland were identified as those of Joanne Sheen, a mother of three who disappeared nearly seven years ago.
Police have arrested two 56-year-old men from Southampton in connection with the investigation. One of the men was subsequently arrested on suspicion of murder, while the other was released on bail as inquiries continue.
Remains Found After Woodland Wildfire
Sheen, 44, was last seen in Southampton in December 2019. Her family reported her missing in February 2020, beginning a lengthy investigation that generated more than 4,000 lines of inquiry and around 300 witness statements.
The search eventually extended across multiple locations, including addresses and areas of water. Previous arrests were also made in 2020 over suspected conspiracy to murder, but no charges were brought at that stage.
The breakthrough came in August 2026 in Feltham, west London. A wildfire had affected woodland known as The Pits on Aug. 5. About a week later, on Aug. 12, a member of the public discovered human remains in the area.
A murder investigation was launched, and subsequent forensic examination and DNA testing confirmed that the remains belonged to Sheen.
Two Southampton Men Arrested
Following the identification, investigators renewed efforts to establish what happened to Sheen and how she came to be in Feltham, roughly 60 miles from Southampton.
A 56-year-old Southampton man was initially arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder. Police later arrested him again on suspicion of the same offense and murder. He has since been released on bail under conditions while the investigation continues.
A second 56-year-old man from Southampton was also arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder and subsequently released on bail. Police have not publicly identified either man.
Detectives are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding Sheen’s disappearance and death. Authorities have emphasized that the investigation remains active and that the arrests do not represent the conclusion of the case.
Police Appeal for Information
Investigators are appealing to anyone who may have information about Sheen’s disappearance, her movements before she vanished, or how she ended up in Feltham to contact authorities.
A £20,000 reward is available for information that could assist the investigation. Police have also urged people who may have previously believed their information was insignificant to come forward.
For Sheen’s family, the discovery has ended years of uncertainty about what happened to her, while detectives continue working to establish the full circumstances of her death.
