A 34-year-old man has been charged with the murders of two men whose remains were found in suitcases near the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol, England. The Metropolitan Police have identified the victims as Albert Alfonso, 62, and Paul Longworth, 71. The suspect, Yostin Andres Mosquera, a Colombian national, had been staying with the victims at their West London apartment before the murders.
Police were alerted to the scene on Wednesday night, July 10, 2024, after reports of a man behaving suspiciously on the bridge. Officers arrived shortly after midnight but found the suspect had fled, leaving the suitcases behind. The remains were later identified as belonging to Alfonso and Longworth.
The victims had been in a relationship and still resided together. They had allowed Mosquera to stay with them temporarily. The finding of additional remains at their Shepherd’s Bush neighborhood home intensified the investigation.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine stated, “The evidence collected thus far does not indicate that the murders were motivated by homophobia. I hope it provides some comfort that, although the investigation is still in its early stages and ongoing, we are not seeking any other suspects now.”
Valentine added, “My primary concern is for Albert and Paul’s loved ones as they process this devastating news. Although we believe neither had immediate family, we have located other relatives who have been notified and are receiving support from specialist officers. Our efforts to identify more extended family members are ongoing.”
Mosquera was apprehended on Saturday morning at Bristol’s Temple Meads Station after a joint operation by the Metropolitan Police and Avon and Somerset Police. Authorities are confident that no other suspects are involved in this case.
Officers are working to determine if there are any linked offenses in the UK or overseas to build a complete picture of the circumstances surrounding the murders. Valentine emphasized the collaborative efforts, “Officers have worked with the pan-London LGBTQ+ Independent Advisory Group (IAG) since the identity of the two victims and their sexuality was established. Their guidance, knowledge, and assistance have been invaluable to the investigation. We will keep collaborating with them and other partners, including local IAGs, as the investigation and police response progress.”
Neighbors expressed shock and sadness upon learning about the grisly discovery. One neighbor described Albert Alfonso and Paul Longworth as “lovely guys” who were always friendly and polite. Another neighbor mentioned that Longworth had recently retired and looked forward to traveling more. The community is devastated.
The Clifton Suspension Bridge, a renowned landmark in Bristol, was closed off as forensic investigators worked at the scene. Acting Bristol Commander Vicks Hayward-Melen explained, “An immediate area search was conducted. Initial inquiries established that the suspect traveled to the bridge by taxi, which has been seized, and the driver is assisting with the investigation.”
Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is urged to contact the police. The authorities have assured the public that their priority remains this case’s thorough and swift resolution.