Police investigating the death of a man found stabbed in Chelmsford this morning say initial enquiries indicate it was a ‘targeted, drugs-related incident’.

Police were called to Cromar Way just before 1am today, Friday June 22, and found a man in his 40s who was seriously injured.

Just after 2am, having been taken to hospital, the man was pronounced dead.

Three men, aged 40, 53, and 59, and a 53-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of murder.

The 53-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of possession of Class A drugs.

All remain in police custody tonight.

Police closed an alleyway near Meteor Way, close to Essex County Cricket Ground’, as part if their investigation and anticipate it will reman closed for the next 48 hours.

DCI Martin Pasmore, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, who is leading the investigation, said: “Our committed team of officers are working hard to establish the circumstances which sadly led to this man’s death.

“Enquiries so far indicate that this was a targeted, drugs-related incident.

“We also remain open minded to the possibility that there are other individuals who have not yet been spoken to, who may have been involved in events which led to this tragic incident.

“The victim’s family are being supported by specialist officers, and our thoughts and condolences are with them at this most difficult of times.

“Anyone who believes they have information which could help our enquiries, is asked to contact my team of detectives on 101 at the earliest opportunity.

“People should remember that they can also share information anonymously via Crimestoppers.”

Chief Inspector Gerry Parker, District Commander for Chelmsford and Maldon, said: “We would like to thank members of the public for their patience and support today, as we understand that a number of people will have been impacted by the police cordon.

“People in Chelmsford will continue to see a heightened police presence throughout the weekend.

“High visibility patrols are planned, so please do not be alarmed if you see more officers than usual, as this is not in response to any ongoing threat to the wider public.

“I urge everyone to carry on their day to day business as usual.

“Please don’t hesitate to talk to an officer if you have any concerns, or think you have information which could help our enquiries.”

Stop and search powers under Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 were authorised for Chelmsford between 1.30am and 4am this morning as part of the immediate response to the incident.

These have been put in place again from 7.15pm this evening to 4am tomorrow, Saturday June 23.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call 101, quoting reference 54 of 22/06.

Alternatively, you can contact the Crimestoppers charity 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111.