Authorities attest that the human remains discovered on the shores of Sunderland belong to a man who vanished in South Tyneside.
According to Northumbria Police, human remains found on beaches in Roker and Seaburn have been identified as Roy Johnson, who has gone missing.
Roy was last seen by personnel at South Tyneside District Hospital on January 20, the day he was reported missing.
The 49-year-old was later sighted on CCTV footage in the Temple Park Road area of South Shields, shortly before 11pm.
Police received many reports from the public between February 13 and April 8 regarding possible human remains washing up on Sunderland beaches.
Police have stated that the exact circumstances of the Newcastle man’s death cannot be confirmed but officers have stated that they are not treating the incident as suspicious.
Roy’s family and friends have been informed and they are being supported by specially-trained officers.
The Major Investigation Team of Northumbria Police’s Detective Chief Inspector Graeme Barr stated: “This is an extremely sad update that we hoped we would never have to give.”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Roy’s family as they try to process what has happened. As always, I would ask that his family’s privacy be respected at this unbearably difficult time of mourning.
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“Several teams of officers conducted thorough searches as soon as Roy was reported missing in the hopes that we would find him safely.
“I want to express my gratitude to everyone who helped in Roy’s search, especially the participating officers, our partners, and most importantly, the members of the public who provided information.
“I would also like to express my gratitude to everyone who reported the discoveries made on Sunderland’s beaches; your information has been instrumental in obtaining the answers Roy’s family so rightfully deserves.”
It has been verified by Northumbria Police that the coroner will now get a report.
