Murder investigation launched following disappearance of Tunbridge Wells man

Detectives searching for a man missing from Tunbridge Wells are now treating his disappearance as a murder investigation.

Enquires to locate 54-year-old Wayne Woodgate have led to the recovery of a body in East Sussex and the arrest of a suspect.

Mr Woodgate had been reported missing on Thursday 17 October 2024. An appeal to help find him was previously issued by Kent Police, following a report he was last seen entering a van in Goods Station Road.

On Wednesday 23 October, officers attended a rural location in Peasmarsh, East Sussex, where a body was located. Formal identification has yet to take place, but the family of Mr Woodgate have been informed.

A 59-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody.

To assist the investigation, police are appealing for dashcam footage from motorists who may have recently travelled on the A268 between Peasmarsh and Four Oaks.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil Kimber said: ‘We are specifically requesting any dashcam for journeys made between 5.15pm and 5.45pm on Thursday 17 October, and between 8.15am and 8.45am on Sunday 20 October. Footage, as well as CCTV and doorbell camera images can be uploaded though the Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) using this online link.’

If you have other information which may assist the investigation call 01622 652006, quoting reference 46/179489/24.

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete their online form.