A murder investigation is underway after an incident at an address on George Street in Ryde yesterday (Tuesday).
As first reported by Island Echo, numerous police vehicles rushed to the town centre address at around 13:30 with eyewitnesses reporting that officers were clad in riot gear and armed with shields.
A cordon was soon put in place around a section of footway outside the property with mainland forensic officers sent inside to search for and gather crucial evidence.
Over 6 hours after the incident initially unfolded, forensic officers were still entering and exiting the residential block wearing white suits.
Island Echo is told that the matter was originally reported to the authorities during the early hours of Tuesday morning, but ‘wasn’t taken seriously’ and it was around 12 hours later that officers arrived.
Read more: POLICE RESPONSE TO RYDE ‘MURDER’ REFERRED TO CONDUCT WATCHDOG
Police have remained at George Street overnight and continue their investigations at the scene this morning (Wednesday).
Hampshire Constabulary has finally confirmed details of the serious incident and are appealing for any witnesses.
A spokesperson for the force has said:
“We are investigating the death of a man at a flat in George Street, Ryde.
“Officers attended the address yesterday afternoon (Tuesday 4 January) where the body of the man, aged in his 30s, was discovered.
“His next of kin have been informed.
“Police are making a number of enquiries to establish the full circumstances, and as part of our investigation a 38-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder.
“He remains in custody at this time.”
Acting Detective Chief Inspector Adam Edwards has said:
“Incidents of this nature are incredibly rare on the Isle of Wight, and we can appreciate that this will cause some community concern.
“Please be reassured that enquiries are in hand and there is no wider risk to the public.
“Residents can expect to see an increased police presence in George Street and the surrounding areas while we conduct our investigation.
“We are urging anyone with information about this death to please make contact with us.
“We’re particularly keen to hear from anyone that may have seen, or heard, anything out of the ordinary in the area on the evening of Monday 3 January, and into the early hours of Tuesday 4 January.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting Operation Amaryllis or 44220003393.
Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their anonymous online form at crimestoppers-uk.org
UPDATE @ 17:40 – Hampshire Constabulary’s response to a suspected murder in Ryde, which is claimed to have been delayed and ‘not taken seriously’, has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
Read the full story here: islandecho.co.uk/police-response-to-ryde-murder-referred-to-conduct-watchdog
