Five Men Arrested on Suspicion of Murder in Connection with Missing Yeovil Man
Avon and Somerset Police have arrested five men on suspicion of murder in relation to the disappearance of Michael Wheeler, 37, from Yeovil, who has been missing for over a month.
Concerns about Mr. Wheeler's welfare were raised on 16 September, weeks after his last known contact on 24 August. Despite extensive efforts to locate him, including searches at Ham Hill, Stoke sub Hamdon, and various addresses in Yeovil and Crewkerne, there has been no sign of Mr. Wheeler. His car was found abandoned in Yeovil last week, adding to the concerns.
The five arrested men, ranging in age from their late teens to late 30s, are currently in police custody for questioning. This development comes after four of the suspects were previously arrested and questioned last week. A fifth man, not part of the initial arrests, has now also been detained on suspicion of murder.
Detective Chief Inspector Lorett Spierenburg, leading the investigation, described the situation as an "incredibly difficult time" for Mr. Wheeler’s family, who are "desperate to know what has happened." She added that while officers initially kept an open mind about his disappearance, the investigation has now shifted focus to a potential murder.
DCI Spierenburg stated that detectives are questioning the men in custody to determine whether they possess any information that could help locate Mr. Wheeler or shed light on what has occurred. A sixth individual, who was also arrested last week, remains on police bail.
"We recognise this significant development may cause concern within the local community," said DCI Spierenburg, "but we’d like to reassure people that there is no evidence suggesting an increased risk to public safety."
Police continue to appeal for information, urging anyone who may have seen or heard from Mr. Wheeler since 24 August to come forward.
Anyone with information can contact Avon and Somerset Police.