Double murder investigation launched in Somerset

A man and a woman have been found dead at a house in Norton Fitzwarren

Collin Reeves attacked neighbours Stephen and Jennifer Chapple in their own home after a row over parking
Author: James DiamondPublished 22nd Nov 2021
Last updated 22nd Nov 2021

A double murder investigation is underway in Somerset after two people were found dead overnight (21 November).

Avon and Somerset Police were called to a house on Dragon Rise in Norton Fitzwarren at around 9:45pm.

A man and a woman, both of whom were in their 30s, were found seriously injured and died at the scene.

Two men, aged, 34 and 67, have been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Detective Inspector Neil Meade, of the Major Crime Investigation Team, said: “The thoughts of everyone in the force this morning are with the families of the two people who sadly died last night.

“Two young children were inside the property at the time of the incident and while thankfully they weren’t hurt, they are understandably distressed at what has happened.

“They are being looked after and specially trained officers have been deployed to support the victim’s families in what is undoubtedly the most difficult of times.”

A cordon is in place at two properties on the street while the police examine the scene.

We're told a formal identification process and post-mortem examinations to determine the causes of death will take place soon.

The police say they have had contact with those involved in the past and as such, the case has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

"It would be inappropriate to go into further detail until the referral has been considered," a statement from the police reads.

“We will carry out a full and thorough investigation and we will do all we can to achieve justice for the victim’s families," Det Insp Neil Meade said.

“While this appears to be an isolated incident, there will be increased police activity in the area to provide the community with reassurance.

“Incidents like this are very rare but when they do happen, we know they cause significant concern so we’d urge anyone with worries or questions to speak to an officer or contact their local neighbourhood policing team."

Anyone who knows anything about what happened is urged to contact the police on 101 and quote reference number 5221274497.

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