Richard Bentley, 55, was reported missing in November last year and now police believe a body found in a pond could be his – an investigation into the ‘unexplained’ death is underway
A body has been found in a pond in the search for a dad who was first reported missing four months ago. Dorset Police confirmed the body had been found near Chaseside, in Bournemouth, after officers were alerted to its discovery at 2:29pm on Monday.
While the body has not been identified, it is believed to be that of Richard Bentley. The 55-year-old was reported missing on Saturday November 16. His next of kin has been informed and Dorset Police are updating them with developments in the investigation. Police are looking to establish the full circumstances surrounding the death, which is currently being treated as “unexplained”.
A cordon was seen in place around the pond this week as officers carried out an investigation of the scene. Detective Chief Inspector Neil Third, of the Major Crime Investigation Team, confirmed an investigation had been launched.
“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,” he said. “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.”
A statement from Dorset Police said: “Dorset Police received a report at 2.29pm on Monday 24 March 2025 that a body had been found in a pond off Chaseside in the Littledown area.
“While the body has not yet been formally identified, it is believed to be that of 55-year-old Richard Bentley, who was reported missing on Saturday 16 November 2024. His next of kin has been informed and officers are keeping them updated with developments in the investigation.
“A cordon is currently in place at the pond while an investigation is carried out. Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55240176625”.
His daughter Miranda previously made a heartfelt appeal to find her missing dad. She told the Bournemouth Echo: “I would like to appeal to you to make contact with your family, who are all extremely worried for you.
“We just want to make sure you are safe and well and would ask anyone who may have knowledge of Richard’s whereabouts to please contact the police.” Mr Bentley was last seen on November 12 in the Townsend area of the city before being reported missing four days later.
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.
