Police investigating the discovery of a man’s body in a wheelie bin in Coventry have released new details about distinctive tattoos as they seek help identifying the victim.
The body was discovered by a member of the public at around 5pm on Friday, 13 March, in Cash’s Park off Daimler Road.
Officers from West Midlands Police believe the man was aged between 40 and 50 years old, though his identity has not yet been confirmed.
Distinctive tattoos may help identify victim
Investigators say the man had a number of distinctive tattoos, including a cross with a snake wrapped around it and the words “Little Stardust” on his back.
He also had a tattoo on his right arm reading “nan” alongside a clover and the colours of the Irish flag.
Police have released descriptions of the tattoos in the hope that someone may recognise them and help identify the victim.
Investigation focuses on how body was moved
The man was found inside a Coventry City Council wheelie bin with a green lid, and detectives are now working with the local authority to determine where the bin was originally located before it was moved to the park.
Officers believe the man may have been struck by a vehicle before his body was placed in the bin and moved, though investigations into the circumstances of his death remain ongoing.
Appeal for information
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Poole, who is leading the investigation, said officers are working around the clock to establish what happened.
He said:
“We have a large team of detectives, forensic specialists and other staff working around the clock to establish what has happened to this man, who he is, and who is responsible.”
Poole added that several pieces of information have already been received following earlier appeals and are currently being followed up by detectives.
Police are particularly keen to hear from anyone who recognises the tattoos, as well as anyone who may have dashcam or CCTV footage from the area around the time the body was discovered.
They are also asking members of the public to report unexplained damage to a vehicle, or any sudden change in behaviour from someone they know that may be connected to the incident.
Anyone with information is asked to contact West Midlands Police on 101, quoting log 4148 of 13 March.