Sussex Police launch murder investigation after Hailsham stabbing

Sussex Police have launched a murder investigation following the death of a man in Hailsham.

Officers were first called to a property on Vicarage Field at around 6:20pm on Thursday (August 29th) following reports of an altercation taking place.

When responders arrived at the scene, a 20-year-old man was found to have sustained a serious injury to the chest, believed to be a stab wound.

The victim, named locally as Billy Ripley, received immediate medical attention at the scene by paramedics attending the incident, but was sadly pronounced dead a short time later.

Following his death, Ripley's family have been informed of his death and are being supported by police officers.

In the wake of the attack, police have launched a murder investigation and have already arrested two people in connection with the incident.

A 17-year old boy from Hellingly was arrestred on suspicion of murder, while a 21-year-old woman was detained on suspicion of assisting an offender. Both remain in police custody.

Speaking on the case, Detective Chief Inspector Alex Campbell from Sussex Police paid tribute to the victim.

"We would once again like to express our sincere condolences to the family of the young man who has lost his life," Campbell said.

"They will continue to receive our full support while we search for answers.

"Our enquiries are ongoing, but we can confirm the individuals involved were known to each other.

"Additional officers have been out in the community to offer reassurance and that engagement will continue, with partner agencies, over the weekend."

An appeal has been launched, with those who may have been in the area at the time of the attack to get in touch as soon as possible.

As well as this, those who may have any video footage that might help officers in their investigation can reach out to the police via their website.

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