Murder investigation underway after Blackburn man found dead in flat

Lancashire Police have launched a murder investigation after a man was found deceased in his Blackburn flat.

They were called to Leamington Road at 11.38am yesterday (June 7) to reports of a sudden death.

Emergency services attended and sadly found a 50-year-old local man, who can now be named as David Read. Our thoughts are with David’s loved ones. They are being supported by specially-trained officers.

David was found with multiple injuries and his death is currently being treated as suspicious. A post mortem examination is ongoing today.

We have a dedicated team of officers assigned to this case and our enquiries are ongoing. Whilst there have been no arrests made at this point, a number of lines of enquiry are being explored.

Reassurance patrols have been increased in the area.

A scene will remain in place over the coming days as our officers carry out a thorough investigation.

As part of our enquiries we are keen to hear from anybody who knew David, particularly if they have had contact with him in recent days or have information that they think may assist our investigation.

We are also appealing to anyone who saw anything suspicious during Tuesday and Wednesday in the Leamington Road area or has CCTV or dashcam footage covering those dates.

DCI Mark Haworth-Oates, of our Force Major Investigation Team, said: “First and foremost my thoughts are with David’s loved ones at this distressing time. They have asked for their privacy to be respected while they come to terms with this devastating news.

“If anybody has any information which they believe could assist with our enquiries – however insignificant they think it might be – I would ask them to contact police as soon as possible. I appreciate that an incident like this will cause concern in the local community. We do believe that Mr Read was specifically targeted and we are working hard to identify and arrest those responsible. Residents will see an increased police presence in the area over the coming days, please feel free to approach our officers and pass on any information you may have.

“Someone out there will know the reason why David was attacked in this terrible way and will know the identity of those responsible. I would urge them to come forward to tell us what they know.”

In a tribute, David’s family said: “David was a lovely caring man and had a strong bond with his parents. He was known as the gentle giant and will be sadly missed by his family and friends.” Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.