Gruesome Discovery on Clifton Suspension Bridge Leads to Arrest
A suspect, Yostin Mosquera, 34, has been charged with murder following the discovery of two bodies, including that of a French national, found in suitcases on the Clifton Suspension Bridge in the United Kingdom, police reported on Monday.
The victims, identified as Albert Alfonso, 62, a British citizen originally from France, and Paul Longworth, 71, had been in a relationship and were still living together in west London. The suspect, Mosquera, had been staying with them, according to the police.
While the investigation has not indicated a homophobic motive, the case has been classified as a hate crime. The Metropolitan Police launched a manhunt after the suitcases were discovered on the iconic bridge in Bristol, southwest England, last week. Further human remains were subsequently found at a flat in London.
Mosquera is set to appear before magistrates in London later on Monday.
Metropolitan Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine addressed the impact of the incident, particularly on the LGBTQ+ community. “I know that this awful incident will cause concern not just among residents… but in the wider LGBTQ+ community across London,” he said, adding that the police are not seeking any other suspects in connection with the killings.
“My thoughts are first and foremost with Albert and Paul’s loved ones who are coming to terms with this terrible news,” Valentine added.
The Clifton Suspension Bridge, designed by renowned engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, is one of the oldest surviving suspension bridges in the world. Opened in 1864, it spans the Avon Gorge and is a prominent tourist attraction and symbol of Bristol.