Body found in hunt for dad last seen on CCTV 6 weeks ago after car abandoned with phone inside

A BODY has been found in the hunt for a dad who last seen on CCTV six weeks ago before his car was found abandoned.

Marcus Barter, 30, was captured walking along a country lane in Newport, Wales , at 2.30pm on August 1.

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His car with his mobile phone inside were discovered in Wentwood forest by police later that day,

Gwent Police today confirmed a body was found on Sunday almost six miles away from his last sighting.

Formal identification has not taken place but Marcus’ family have been informed, the force said.

The dad-of-one’s brother Simon Barter said following the tragic discovery: “It is with the deepest of sadness that we are in a position to say that sadly Marcus is no longer with us.

“The family are asking for peace and space to feel their grief and come to terms with our horrific loss.

“As much as sympathy messages are appreciated, we ask that they are not sent to the family at this painful time. If you wish to lay flowers, the family have started to place flowers at Wentwood bluebells as this holds a place of so many good memories of Marcus.

“Thank you to each and every single individual who has been active on the social media pages, sharing posts, putting posters up and searching the area relentlessly.”

A huge search was launched after Marcus was captured on doorbell footage walking along Coed y Caraeu lane.

His mobile phone showed he had made a call around an hour after his final sighting.

Police searched the River Usk and used drones to scour the forested area of hills at Wentwood.

Specialist dogs were also brought in to help find Marcus, who has a four-year-old son.

His mum Nicola previously told how his son had been asking for his dad following his disappearance.

She said: “My grandson keeps asking ‘where’s Daddy?’ – he is only four years old and doesn’t understand why daddy isn’t home.”

His family also described the dad as “vulnerable” and explained he suffers with his mental health .

Gwent Police said: “We received a call that the body of a man had been found near Underwood, Newport on Sunday 8 September.

“Formal identification has yet to take place, however, the family of Marcus Barter have been notified. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”

WNS