HUMAN remains that were found in Mumbles woodland have been identified as Russell Scozzi, of West Cross, Swansea, who was last seen in May 2002.
South Wales Police made the discovery behind Waverley Drive, Mumbles on Thursday, April 6. They have confirmed that the remains were identified as the man who went missing more than 20 years ago.
Paying tribute to Mr Scozzi following the news of the identification, his sister, Ms Owens, said: “My heart goes out to Russell’s children who have grown up without their father and never really knowing what happened to him.
“I dearly loved Russell. He was my big brother who I always looked up to when I was growing up.
“Finally, we can be given the opportunity to grieve him properly.”
Russell Scozzi, a 43-year-old computer expert, was last seen at a Swansea bus station. A year earlier, he quit his high-paying job with a multinational IT company for no apparent reason.
He travelled extensively to destinations such as Bali and Australia and was fluent in both German and French, but it was unusual for him to not keep in touch with his family.
His family were specifically concerned that Mr Scozzi made no attempts to contact his children, something that they described as completely out of character.
Detective Chief Inspector, Matt Davies, said: “Our investigation into the finding of Mr Scozzi’s remains is ongoing in order that we can establish the circumstances leading up to, and the cause of death.
“The local residents of Waverley Drive supported officers throughout the course of our extensive and prolonged investigation of the scene and I wish to thank them for their support and patience.
“Following a thorough forensic examination, it’s been established that the remains are those of missing person Russell Scozzi who was last seen in May 2002. His family have been updated and are being supported by specially trained officers at this difficult time.”
