Double murder investigation after two men killed in 'sudden and violent tragedy'

01 October 2023 , 09:18

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A double murder investigation is underway in Leeds (Image: Google Street View)

Police have launched a double murder investigation after two men were found dead in what has been described as "an absolute tragedy".

Officers received a report that a man had been stabbed near Hill Top Avenue in Harehills, Leeds, at 11.06am yesterday. West Yorkshire Police rushed to the scene and found the injured man, who was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics. Another man was found in a nearby address with serious injuries - and was pronounced dead after being taken to hospital for emergency treatment.

Officers also found a third man with a serious injury to his hand. The 46-year-old was arrested on suspicion of murder and taken to hospital for treatment. A man aged 48 was also arrested on suspicion of murder in relation to the incident. A crime scene is in place in the area while detectives from West Yorkshire Police Homicide and Major Enquiry Team carry out the investigation.

The police said one of the victims was a 53-year-old man who lived locally, while the other was 65 years old, and enquiries are ongoing to trace his family. Anyone who has information about the incident has been urged to contact the police.

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Superintendent Sarah Jones said: "Clearly, it is an absolute tragedy for two men to have lost their lives like this in such a sudden and violent way, and we will be doing everything we can to establish the full circumstances and see that those responsible are brought to justice. We have now been able to identify both of these men.

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"One is a 53-year-old who lived locally, and we have specialist trained officers supporting his family. The other is a 65-year-old man and enquiries are ongoing to trace his family. Our investigation is still in its very early stages, and we are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed any part of this incident or who has any information that could assist our enquiries.

"We appreciate that an incident like this will cause understandable concern in the community, and we are continuing to liaise with our colleagues at Leeds District who are providing an increased presence in the area to reassure residents and will be keeping local representatives updated."

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team via 101 quoting Operation Prepsquare, crime reference 13230544336 or online at www.westyorkshire.police.uk/101livechat

Chiara Fiorillo