Major hunt launched for killer as man found fatally injured on Northampton canal bench

A major manhunt has been launched after a man was fatally injured on a bench in a busy town centre- with his killer still on the loose.

Police were called to Northampton town centre following the discovery of the man, who was in his 50s, near the canal footpath behind Auctioneers Court on Friday. Medics discovered the victim close to the the River Nene at around 6.30am.

Forensics were pictured close to the river following the incident. It comes as a cordon was put in place. Locals have been urged to avoid the area during the investigation stages. The canal footpath remains closed at this time. A post mortem examination is set to take place on Monday at Glenfield Hospital in Leicester.

READ MORE: Volcano erupts for first time in 600 years days after huge earthquake rocked Russia

READ MORE: Horrified Mallorca tourists watch as plane 'performing stunts' crashes into the sea

Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Torie Harrison, from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit, said: "Our investigation is continuing at pace and we have a dedicated team of officers working hard to establish the circumstances that have led to the man’s death. Our thoughts and condolences are firmly with his family at this time and they are being supported by specially trained officers from the investigation team."

Police are looking to speak to people who were in the area between 8pm on Thursday, July 31 to 6.30am on Friday, August 1. Detectives would also like to hear from anyone who may have captured CCTV in the area.

They added: “Officers have been in the area today carrying out house-to-house enquiries and have spoken with a number of people. However, we are continuing to appeal for witnesses to come forward and we’re particularly keen to locate any CCTV or other camera footage of the nearby area.

“There are a large number of apartments that overlook the river and the area near to where the man was found, and anyone from these residences, or anywhere else nearby, who may have camera footage or any other information, is urged to contact police as soon as possible. Any information, no matter how small, can help us piece together exactly what happened.

“We will continue to have an increased police presence in the area, and neighbourhood officers will be carrying out high-visibility patrols throughout the weekend to offer reassurance and support the community. If you have any concerns, please do speak to an officer.”

Anyone with information has been urged to contact the police on 101, quoting incident number 25000450267. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.