In a heartbreaking update, authorities have confirmed that human remains found on a beach in Brighton belong to Anne Potter, a woman who had been missing for eight months. Anne was last seen in October 2024 leaving her home in Jersey. Her sudden disappearance led to an extensive island-wide search.
The remains were discovered 140 miles away from where Anne was last spotted, raising several questions and deepening the tragedy for her grieving loved ones.
Last Known Movements and Initial Search Efforts
Anne Potter was reportedly seen leaving her residence on the Channel Island of Jersey around 12:30 PM on October 20, 2024. She was believed to be heading toward Greve De Lecq, a scenic but rugged coastal area.
At the time of her disappearance, Anne was described as wearing a black windbreaker jacket and blue jeans.
Following her disappearance, the States of Jersey Police launched an extensive multi-agency search operation. Search efforts spanned:
- The north coast of Jersey from Greve De Lecq to L’Etacq and Sorel Point
- Shoreline searches along Jersey’s west coast
- Aerial support from CI Air Search
- Assistance from the drone rescue team, coastguard, fire crews, and lifeboat teams
Despite the large-scale operation, Anne could not be located at the time.
Discovery of Remains in Brighton
In June 2025, human remains were discovered on a beach in Brighton, on the southern coast of mainland UK. Authorities have since confirmed, through DNA testing, that the remains are a match for Anne Potter.
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Hafey, who led the investigation for the Jersey Police, confirmed the grim development:
“Remains were located on a beach in Brighton, which have now been confirmed as a DNA match with Anne. Our thoughts are with her husband, family, and friends during this tragic time.”
Unanswered Questions Remain
As of now, it is unclear whether authorities are treating Anne’s death as suspicious. The exact cause of death has not been publicly released, and further details are awaited from law enforcement.
The Sun reached out to the Jersey Police for more information regarding the case, but no official statement has yet been released regarding the circumstances leading to Anne’s death or how her remains traveled such a vast distance.
A Heartbreaking End to a Months-Long Search
Anne Potter’s disappearance left her community in shock, and her confirmed death has only deepened the sorrow. The case has also sparked concern about coastal safety, mental health, and the importance of search coordination in missing persons cases.
As loved ones grieve and the community mourns, the only solace remains in the closure this discovery has provided—albeit in the most devastating way possible.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Anne Potter’s family and friends.
May she rest in peace.