Investigation underway following death of man and woman in Southport

We can confirm a murder investigation is underway following the discovery of the bodies of a man and woman in a house in Southport.

Officers were called at 9.40am on Wednesday 23rd June to a house in Dinorwic Road, following the discovery of the married couple, who were both in their 70s.

Both were sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

A Home Post mortem, which took place today, Friday 25th June, has revealed that the woman died from a shotgun wound to the chest and the man died from a shotgun wound to the head.

The couple have not yet been formally identified but next of kin have been made aware and are being supported by officers.

Detectives are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.

Detective Superintendent Dave McCaughrean said: “The investigation is in the early stages. We have spoken to neighbours and carried out a number of enquiries and are satisfied we are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.

“Protecting our most vulnerable communities is one of the force’s priorities and we realise that being able to support and advise victims of domestic abuse has never been more important that it is now.

“We are committed to working with our communities and partners to tackle violence against women and girls and will continue to work closely with our local communities and partners to assess how we can work together going forward.

“There is support available to anyone who is or has experienced domestic abuse or has been affected by it in order that nobody else has to suffer or silence.

“For anyone who is in a controlling relationship with an abusive partner but financially tied through a mortgage or tenancy, there are confidential support services available to help you and their children.

“If home is not a safe place for you then we want you to know that you are not alone and you do not have to stay at home if it is not safe to be there.

“If you are in immediate danger, always call 999. If you ring 999 and are not in a safe position to speak to us then cough, or tap, the phone and press 55, when prompted. This will alert the operator that you need assistance and we will provide support.

If you have any non-urgent information on domestic abuse – if you are a victim or believe someone you know is a victim - you can contact direct message @MerPolCC on Twitter, ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ on Facebook or contact @CrimestoppersUK, anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Further support can also be found at these national agencies:
Women’s Aid | womensaid.org.uk | 0808 200 0247 (24 hours) https://www.womensaid.org.uk/information-support/
Refuge (includes information for men) | refuge.org.uk | 0808 200 0247 (24 hours)
National Domestic Violence helpline on 0808 200 0247(24 hours)