Couple found dead from gunshot wounds at house in Southport

Police say that an elderly couple found dead on Merseyside both died from gunshot wounds.

An investigation was launched after the pair, in their 70s, were discovered on Wednesday (23 June) at their home in Dinorwic Road, Southport.

Post mortems have revealed that the woman died from wounds to her chest and the man from a wound to his head.

Detectives say the married couple have not yet been formally identified.

Next of kin have been contacted and are being supported by officers.

They say they're not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.

Police shared domestic abuse advice as they confirmed the deaths.

Detective Superintendent Dave McCaughrean said: "Protecting our most vulnerable communities is one of the force's priorities and we realise that being able to support and advise victims of domestic abuse has never been more important than it is now.

"There is support available to anyone who is or has experienced domestic abuse or has been affected by it in order that nobody else has to suffer in silence."

One neighbour said they were shocked and saddened when they heard what had happened.

They said: "There were a bunch of police cars here on Wednesday morning, maybe six, and some ambulances, they all came out of nowhere.

"The street usually has some cars going up and down so I really noticed the vans and cars outside.

"I can't help but feel really sad, it was only down the road."

Another neighbour said the pair "kept themselves to themselves" and the curtains of their home "were always closed".

"I think I only had one or two interactions with them and they always kept to themselves.

"I would often smile at her when she walked past in the street and say hello but she didn't really say anything back."