Murder probe launched after man dies in hospital

A murder investigation has been launched after a man died in hospital six days after being found with serious injuries.

Officers were called to Highfield Road, Kettering, Northamptonshire, at about 19:00 GMT on 10 January after reports a man had been seriously attacked at nearby Spring Rise Park.

The victim, in his 30s, was taken to hospital with arm, hands and facial wounds. He died at about 17:00 on Thursday.

Six men - four from Kettering aged 38, 24, 24 and 22, a 20-year-old from Desborough and a 24-year-old from Rothwell - who were held in connection with the assault have now all been rearrested on suspicion of murder.

They remain in police custody.

A preliminary forensic post-mortem examination took place at Leicester Royal Infirmary on Friday.

Senior investigating officer Det Ch Insp Johnny Campbell said dozens of officers were working on the case, carrying out house-to-house inquiries, forensic checks and reviewing CCTV footage.

"We wish to extend our sincerest condolences to the victim's family and to reassure them, and the wider public, that we are doing everything we can to bring those responsible to justice," he said.

"While we do have six male suspects in custody, we are still continuing to appeal for information on what has now become a murder inquiry.

"Any small detail may help us - we would rather have that well-meaning information, than not have it at all."

The force said there would be an increased police presence in the area and more high-visibility patrols to reassure and support residents.

The victim's next of kin were now being supported by specially trained officers from the East Midlands major crime team, police said.

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