Father, 39, Identified as Body Found in Sydney National Paddock

"It's sad for anybody to have to end their life in such a tragic way," his friend Kerry Gillett told 9News. "If he liked you, he would give you the world. If he could, if he had it, he shared it."

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Alade-Ọrọ̀ Crow

John Birch, 39, has been identified as the body found at a paddock in Sydney’s north-west, as police explore a new theory regarding his tragic death.

Officers were in search of a missing man when they discovered suspected human remains concealed under a tarp near a residence in Glenorie around 11am yesterday.

This evening, the father and friend is being remembered as a vibrant personality with an enormous heart.

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John Birch, 39, has been identified as the body found at a paddock in Sydney's north-west as police work on a new theory surrounding his death.

“It’s heartbreaking for anyone to end their life in such a tragic manner,” his friend Kerry Gillett shared with 9News.

“If he cared for you, he would give you the world. He was generous with everything he had.”

Authorities are investigating if Birch was struck by a utility vehicle on Gleness St around 6am yesterday.

Local residents reported hearing a loud bang.

“There was a bang early in the morning at the corner of Cat Eye Ridge Road and Gleness,” said Glenorie resident Bob.

Birch did not reside there but frequently visited a house located approximately 100 metres down the road.

READ MORE: Hackmans’ dog likely died of dehydration and starvation: report

Glenorie body

The residence was swarming with detectives and forensic specialists who spent the last 24 hours gathering evidence.

The occupants of the house, consisting of two men and a woman, were taken into custody yesterday and questioned overnight.

They have all been released without charge.

While in custody, an unidentified individual attempted to break into the home in search of drugs and cash.

Investigations are ongoing as police await the results of a post-mortem examination.

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