A man arrested on suspicion of murder following the deaths of two women in a suspected stabbing incident on Christmas Day is still in police custody, authorities confirmed. The 49-year-old, hailing from Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, is also being detained on suspicion of attempted murder in relation to a man in his late 20s and a teenage boy who sustained serious injuries and were hospitalized. Thames Valley Police disclosed that both individuals are currently in stable condition after the tragic event unfolded at Santa Cruz Avenue in Newton Leys, Bletchley. Remarkably, an injured dog initially thought to have perished managed to survive.
Local resident Sophie Pritchard expressed her devastation over the situation, stating to BBC Look East, “It’s just awful what’s happened, tragic… something like this shouldn’t be happening anywhere.” Pritchard placed flowers near the site of the incident as a gesture of mourning.
Authorities were alerted around 18:30 GMT on Wednesday to the location where the two women, aged 38 and 24, lost their lives. A significant cordon was established on Thursday, with a forensics team observed ascending the stairs of a residential building. During the investigation, numbered yellow evidence markers and first aid kits were visible on the street and walkway outside the property, as well as on a car parked on the nearby Trinidad Grove. Floral tributes have since been laid near the police cordon.
Milton Keynes city councillor Ed Hume emphasized the community’s unity in Newton Leys, describing it as a closely bonded group that supports one another and expressing shock and sorrow over the incident. Another resident, Tracey Howard, conveyed her profound shock and sadness regarding the tragic events.
Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Brangwin extended his heartfelt sympathies to the families of the deceased women, acknowledging the profound loss experienced in the wake of the shocking incident. He further stated, “We have initiated a double murder investigation which may unsettle the broader public, but we have made an arrest and are not seeking any other individuals in connection with this incident as the parties involved are acquainted.” Brangwin reassured the public of a visible police presence in the area throughout the investigative process, urging individuals to approach officers with any inquiries or apprehensions.
The unfolding tragedy has gripped the community of Newton Leys and the wider region, prompting an outpouring of grief and concern for those affected by the distressing events. As the investigation progresses, authorities remain committed to unraveling the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensuring justice for the victims and their families.
