Murder investigation launched after mother and children found dead near Bedford

Police appeal for information from the public and say suspect is thought to have fled the country

A murder investigation has been launched after a mother and her two children were found dead at a property near Bedford.

Bedfordshire police said they believed that the suspect, who was known to the victims, had fled the country.

Officers were called to a home in Great Denham on Monday over concerns for the woman and children, who had not been seen for several days. When officers forced entry, they discovered the bodies.

The assistant chief constable John Murphy said: “This is a deeply distressing incident in which a mother and her two children are believed to have been murdered.

“As a result of inquiries undertaken so far, we have identified a suspect, who was known to all three victims and who we believe has since left the country.

“While there is nothing to suggest there is any wider risk to the public, we will be increasing the police presence in and around the area to support the investigation and provide reassurance to residents.”

Murphy added: “Our thoughts are first and foremost with all those affected. We recognise that this will cause concern in the local community and beyond.

“This is the early stages of what is an incredibly complex investigation. We are committing all necessary resources to establish exactly what has happened and to find the person responsible.

“I would ask anyone who may have information about this incident, or who may have heard or seen any suspicious activity in Carnoustie Drive, particularly on Friday and Saturday, to please come forward to police as soon as possible. Any information, no matter how small, could help our investigation.”

Murphy urged the public to avoid speculation about what happened. He said: “I would also ask people to be mindful of the privacy of the victims and avoid speculating about what might have happened.”

Anyone with information should contact police using the webchat service on www.beds.police.uk or call 101 quoting Operation Snowdrift.