Police are investigating the possibility that two bodies found in a burning car were those of a parent and child.

The blazing vehicle was found on a lay-by off the A47 north of Earl Shilton, near Hinckley, Leicestershire on Tuesday night.

It is understood detectives were able to trace relatives of the pair they suspect were the deceased by identification of the car. That family are understood to be missing a parent and their son or daughter of unspecified age.

Police said they have been unable to establish whether both victims were male, female or even adults because of the intensity of the fire. A post-mortem examination of the bodies was due to take place on Wednesday afternoon.

Murder-suicide and suicide pact were among the theories being considered.

Speaking by the police cordon, Detective Superintendent Chris Thomas said: "We have not formally identified the two bodies in the car so it would be insensitive to give any indication at this time.

"We are not relating it to any other incident and we are not actively seeking any other person, but we are keeping an open mind."

© Independent Television News Limited 2009. All rights reserved.