Man and woman arrested over Essex shopping centre murder

Two people have been arrested on suspicion of the murder of a man who died in a shopping centre in Essex.

Police were called to reports that the victim, aged in his 30s, had been injured in a serious assault inside the Lakeside shopping centre in Thurrock shortly before 4.30pm on Thursday.

He was pronounced dead at the scene, Essex Police said.

A 19-year-old man and a 20-year-old woman have been arrested on suspicion of murder, the force said on Monday.

Police said a 23-year-old man, who had previously been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder, has been released without charge.

Detective Chief Inspector Ashley Howard said the force does not believe there is any threat to the wider community and appealed for anyone with information to come forward.

The officer, who is leading the investigation, said: “Our investigation into this murder is progressing well and my team have worked hard through the day and night.

“Our investigation continues at pace and we are actively pursuing a number of leads in an effort to leave no stone unturned.

“We still believe based on the information known to the investigation, there is no threat to the wider community and that Lakeside is a safe place.

“My colleagues have spent the last few days at the Lakeside shopping centre reassuring visitors through their high visibility patrols and appealing for information.

“I would encourage anyone with information that has not already spoken to us, to approach an officer and tell us what they know. Please don’t hesitate to speak, you may have a vital piece of information.”