A body has been recovered in the search for a 51-year-old disabled woman who went missing six days ago in Wiltshire, police have confirmed.
Fiona Edson, 51, who uses a mobility scooter, left her home in Chippenham on Sunday afternoon and has been missing since.
Her disappearance prompted a major search of the area surrounding a nearby river, with boats, helicopters, and drones deployed as part of the operation.
In a statement posted on Twitter, Wiltshire Police confirmed that a body was found on Saturday in the Calne area.
The statement reads: “Although formal identification has not yet taken place, Fiona’s family has been updated regarding this development and is being supported by specialist officers. They have asked for privacy at this extremely difficult time.”
“Although it is early stages, we do not believe there to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.”
The tragic discovery comes days after Detective Inspector Mark Kent of Wiltshire Police urged people to “cast their minds back” to Sunday afternoon for any information regarding Ms Edson’s disappearance.
Wiltshire Police, the fire service, and the Wiltshire Search and Rescue (WILSAR) charity have all been involved in the search, trying to establish whether she may have fallen into the water while riding her mobility scooter.
Details on the whereabouts of the body have not yet been disclosed by the police.
While waiting for formal identification, members of the Monkton Park Community Facebook group have reacted to the sad news by launching a GoFundMe page to support Ms Edson’s family during this difficult time.
Wiltshire Police added: “Our thoughts remain with Fiona’s family and friends. Formal identification will take place in due course.”
