A couple in their 70s, found dead at home in a “suspected murder suicide” on New Year’s Eve, have been pictured for the first time. The elderly pair, Michael and Heather Newton, were tragically discovered in their Lilliput home, near Poole Harbour in Dorset, on Tuesday at 11.35am.
An investigation into the deaths is now being launched by the police. The next of kin have been informed, along with the Dorset coroner. The police do not suspect foul play in the deaths.
One local resident expressed their shock, saying: “This area of Poole is considered quite safe so to have something like this happen, is very unsettling. I didn’t know them personally, but it is very sad, and my thoughts go out to their loved ones.”
Detective Inspector Ian Allen, of Dorset Police, commented: “This is a very sad incident and we are doing all we can to support the next of kin. Officers are carrying out enquiries to establish exactly what happened and a cordon is in place to allow a thorough investigation of the scene to take place.”, reports the Mirror.
He added: “‘At this time, it is not believed anyone else was involved in the incident and enquiries will continue to find out the full circumstances surrounding the deaths. I am appealing to anyone who may have any information to help our investigation to please contact Dorset Police.”
“We are trying to establish a timeline of what happened, but are currently considering the period over the Christmas holidays until today. There will be an increased police presence in the area and we would encourage anyone to contact officers from the local neighbourhood policing team if they have any concerns or information.”
Anyone with information is asked to get in touch with Dorset Police at www.dorset. police.uk or by phoning 101, citing occurrence number 55240198989.
Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously at Crimestoppers-uk.org or through Freephone 0800 555 111.
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