Southampton murder investigation launched as man dies in Shirley Road

Officers were called just after midday on Saturday, August 19 by medics at South Central Ambulance Service to a report of the concern of the welfare of a man on Shirley Road.

Officers rushed to the scene and a short time later the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police conducted enquiries and the death was classified as unexplained but not suspicious.

However, following new information which has come to light, officers have now arrested a 46-year-old man from Southampton on suspicion of murder in connection with this incident.

He has been released from police custody on conditional bail with police enquiries continuing.

On social media, the owner of The Witch's Brew Micro Pub, Mary Thornton-Smith said officers had been inspecting CCTV in the area. 

A forensic tent (Image: Newsquest)

She said: "About 30 days ago, a Polish man was found dead at the united reform church, this morning, the police were out checking CCTV in the area because it is now being treated as murder.

"If anyone has information about this, please contact the police. My pub CCTV does not cover further than my pub's boundary, hopefully another business might have recorded something."

Last month staff at The Rover Inn across the road said they saw emergency services arrive on August 19.

Around four police vans were parked in the area. Two officers were guarding the cordon while a team of forensics officers wearing disposable suits and PPE were seen walking in and out of the tent.

Passers-by described the news that a man had died as "shocking".

Freemantle United Reformed Church was cordoned off following the death.

Police said they had been called out by paramedics responding to a concern for welfare incident just after 12pm.

A Hampshire police spokesperson said: "The man's family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers."

Anyone with information should call police on 101. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 800 555 111.