Devon and Cornwall Police have launched a murder investigation after a man was found seriously injured in a service lane in Plymouth and later died at the scene. Emergency services were called to Grand Parade in the West Hoe area at approximately 6:30am on Wednesday, October 21, following reports of a man in need of urgent medical attention.
The man, whose identity has not yet been released, was discovered in a service lane and, despite treatment by paramedics, was pronounced dead at the scene. According to The Herald, the man was found in a bin. Officers are now working to identify him and establish the full circumstances surrounding his death, which is being treated as suspicious.
Investigation underway with multiple cordons in place
Road closures and police cordons remain in place on Grand Parade and Garden Crescent while forensic examinations are carried out. Local residents should expect to see a heightened police presence in the area while enquiries continue, a spokesperson for the force confirmed.
Detective Inspector Chris Lithgow, who is leading the investigation, said: "Our investigation is at an early stage but moving at a significant pace as we work to establish the circumstances surrounding this man's death."
Appeal for witnesses and footage
Police are appealing for anyone who was in the area of Grand Parade and Garden Crescent between 6pm on Tuesday, October 20, and 6:40am on Wednesday, October 21, to come forward if they witnessed anything suspicious. Officers are particularly keen to hear from anyone with CCTV, dashcam, or doorbell footage from the area during this time.
DI Lithgow added: "We are particularly keen to hear from anyone with CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage from the area during this time. There will be an ongoing police presence in the area while enquiries continue and anyone with concerns is encouraged to speak with officers at the scene."
Public urged not to speculate
The detective also urged the public not to speculate about what may have happened, especially on social media, and said further information would be released when possible. The force has set up a Major Incident Public Portal for anyone with relevant information, images, or footage to report it. Alternatively, members of the public can call 101 or visit the Force website, quoting reference 50260282293.
Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers via crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555111. The investigation remains ongoing, and police have confirmed that additional officers will be visible in the area while enquiries continue.
