By Harry Mottram: Police have reported that they have made three arrests following the death of a man in Southgate Street, Bath, in the early hours of Coronation Day (Saturday 6 May). (Photo: BBC.)
The road, carpark and streets surrounding Southgate were closed off causing major disruption as shops were closed, buses diverted and those visiting the city to watch the rugby match or attend Coronation events were barred from a large section of the city centre. Emergency services were called to the Southgate Street area of the city centre shortly before 3.30am following reports of a man having sustained serious injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene close to the McDonalds food outlet.
The man’s next of kin have been informed said Police. They said that formal identification and a post-mortem will be carried out in due course.
Chief Inspector Ronnie Lungu said: “First and foremost our thoughts go out to the family of the man who has died at this difficult and incredibly upsetting time.
“A murder investigation is underway and we’d please ask for the benefit of our enquiries, but more importantly the welfare of the man’s family, that people avoid speculating on the possible circumstances while that is ongoing.
“Three people were arrested this morning on suspicion of murder and are in custody.”
Ch Insp Lungu added: “While such tragic incidents are rare in Bath, people can expect to see an increased police presence in the area over the coming days while investigative enquiries are carried out and officer patrols conducted. We would encourage anyone who does have concerns to speak with those officers who will be happy to assist.
“A scene remains in place at this time. We appreciate that will cause some disruption to the public and businesses today, but would please ask for understanding while officers carry out important work to establish what has happened.
“Anyone who witnessed the incident, has footage of the surrounding area or has information that may assist our investigation is please asked to call 101 and quote reference number 5223105088.”
In the same area 67 crimes were reported in March this year by Police while in Bath as a whole in the same month there were 294 recorded crimes in the city.
You can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their Anonymous Online Form.
No personal details are taken, information cannot be traced or recorded and you will not go to court or have to speak to police when contacting Crimestoppers.
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