A body, believed to be that of missing 55-year-old Richard Bentley, has been found in a pond in the Littledown area of Bournemouth.
Dorset Police were called to the area on Monday afternoon near Chaseside and a cordon is currently in place at the pond while an investigation is carried out.
Richard Bentley was reported missing on Saturday 16 November 2024 and his next of kin has been informed.
Detective Chief Inspector Neil Third, of the Major Crime Investigation Team, said: “Following the discovery of the body, we have launched an investigation to establish the full circumstances surrounding the death, which is currently being treated as unexplained.
“I am keen to speak to anyone who has seen any suspicious activity around the pond in recent months to please come forward.
“We have previously issued appeals in a bid to locate Richard Bentley, and would continue to urge anyone with information about his disappearance that may help our enquiries to please come forward.
“There will be an increased police presence in the area while we work to establish what has happened and we would encourage anyone with information or concerns to please speak with an officer.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55240176625. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.