South Gloucestershire | Archive | 2006 | February | 3
From the archive, first published Friday 3rd Feb 2006.
A MAN described as being "a serious risk to the public" is being hunted by police after a young woman was found dead in his South Gloucestershire flat this week.
Detectives from Avon and Somerset police launched a local and national manhunt for 54-year-old Clive Steven Hayes after the body of the 20-year-old - thought to be a Polish national- was found in his Patchway flat Tuesday.
More than 40 police officers have been drafted in to help crack the case.
At a press conference at force head quarters in Portishead Assistant Chief Constable Jackie Roberts warned the public not to approach the wanted man.
"Due to concerns about his welfare and past history and ongoing police inquiries conducted to date, we strongly believe he poses a risk to the public," she said.
She refused to answer any questions relating to Hayes' mental health saying that it would be inappropriate to do so but did say that she had concerns about his welfare.
Officers found the girl in the bedroom of Hayes' flat in Coniston Road around 3pm after concerned neighbours raised the alarm.
Detective Superintendent Arthur Lewis, leading the inquiry, declined to disclose details of how the woman died but described the incident as "horrific".
However, he did confirm that girl was a care worker and is believed to have worked in the South Gloucestershire area for three weeks,
It is not known why she was at Hayes' flat, where he has lived since 2005, or how many times she had visited him but she is not believed to have been his carer.
Supt Lewis said that paperwork found on the girl indicated that she was of polish origin but that as yet, she had not been formally identified.
"It is not known if the girl had any friends or family in the area but we have contacted the Polish community to see if they can help us and they have given is their support."
He confirmed that officers had tracked down a woman who worked with the victim and are hoping she will be the key in solving the mystery of the victim's identity.
Meanwhile, officers have been scouring unemployed Hayes' flat for clues.
Two cars have also been taken away for forensic examination.
ACC Roberts said that there was no indication that Hayes' had planned to run away but that his car and pet border collie were missing.
She added: "We don't want to blow this out of proportion and we don't want to instil in any panic but the sooner we speak to him the sooner we can move things on."
ACC Roberts went on to make an impassioned plea to Hayes urging him to give himself up. Speaking directly to him she said: "Clive, I make this direct appeal to you. I know this is a difficult time for you but please pick up the telephone and call us."
The police have strongly advised the public not to approach Clive Steven Hayes but to call the dedicated incident room on 01275 816343.
It is believed he is driving a silver coloured MG Rover ZT sports car registration index PL 04 UZN.
© Newsquest Media Group 2008