Police identify Colchester murder victim’s next of kin

Police investigating a suspected murder in Colchester say they have identified the dead man’s next of kin.

Essex Police were called to a flat in Forest Road, near Penrice Close, at around 2.45pm yesterday following reports of concerns for the welfare of a 52-year-old man.

Officers and paramedics attended and found he had suffered stab wounds to his back and chest.

He died at the scene and his death is being treated as murder.

Det Chief Insp Martin Pasmore, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: “Our enquiries are continuing to progress and we are building up a picture around the circumstances that led to this man’s tragic death.

“As part of this, we have spoken to a number of people, are reviewing CCTV and carrying out house-to-house enquiries. We are also continuing our forensic examination of the scene, which will take some time.

“We have identified the man’s next of kin and are supporting them through this very difficult time.

“We are speaking to his friends and neighbours and would appeal to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area around Penrice Close and Forest Road between 11pm on Tuesday, August 21 and 2.45pm on Wednesday to please contact us.”

Witnesses and anyone with information are asked to contact the West Major Crime Team on 101 or email.

Alternatively, people can contact the Crimestoppers charity 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or use the anonymous online form .

A post mortem examination is due to be carried out tomorrow.