Sussex Police launch murder probe in Shoreham

The inquiry was launched after a woman died at a house in Shoreham yesterday.

Police attended an address in Northbourne Close in Shoreham shortly after 12.30pm.

Paramedics also entered the property but a 59-year-old woman was pronounced dead at the scene and her next of kin have been informed.

A 64-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder while police investigations at the property are ongoing.

One resident said they heard officers shouting "armed police open up" before seeing police "coming out with a man in handcuffs".

Multiple emergency service vehicles attended the scene (Image: Sussex News and Pictures)

He added: "Then paramedics rushed in. They came out a bit later looking pretty distraught."

Other residents said that they did not know what had happened but they had been told to stay inside their homes while police investigations were ongoing. The road was described as "quiet" as police presence lessened despite ongoing investigations.

Forensic officers in white overalls carried out investigations at the scene. At least four police cars and two ambulances also attended the incident.

A forensic tent was erected in the front garden of the property as well as a large green privacy screen.

A spokesman for Sussex Police said it was "an isolated incident involving people known to each other, and there is not believed to be any threat to the wider community".

The spokesman added: “Police have launched a murder investigation after a woman was found dead in Shoreham.

The incident occurred shortly after 12.30pm (Image: Sussex News and Pictures)

“At 12.37pm on Monday, October 24, officers responded to a report that a 59-year-old woman had been seriously assaulted inside a property in Northbourne Close.

“Despite the best efforts of paramedics, she was sadly pronounced dead at the scene. Her next of kin have been informed and are being supported by officers at this time.

“A 64-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and taken into police custody.”

A continued police presence is expected in the road while investigations by forensic officers continue.

Anyone with information that could help police with their enquiries is asked to report it online or to call 101 quoting Operation Terrace.

Information can also be reported anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555111.