Recycling plant bones identified as male
BBCForensic specialists have confirmed human remains found at a recycling centre a year ago were those of a man.
Plant employees at Tofts Farm Industrial Estate in Hartlepool found a number of bones in March 2025.
Detectives can now confirm the bones and waste were deposited at the plant from one of four areas – Derbyshire, Durham, East Cheshire or East Riding of Yorkshire.
Det Ch Insp Chris Pringle said: "An investigation such as this is extremely complex and will continue to take a considerable amount of time to reveal his identity."
Over the last year the force has had specialist advice and has been working with the National Crime Agency.
"While it has been one year since the remains of a man were discovered at the recycling plant, the investigation has been ongoing, and this will continue in the year ahead," Pringle said.
"I still encourage anyone who has not yet spoken to police and holds information that could assist with the investigation to please get in touch."