Man found dead from gunshot wounds at UK farm as farmer arrested after break-in

02 May 2024 , 08:29

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The incident took place at a farm in Whaley Bridge, Derbyshire (Image: BBC)

A farmer has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a break-in at a remote farm.

Officers found a man dead at the scene with fatal gunshot wounds after being called to reports of a burglary at 1.20am today. Another man, who had also been shot, was discovered injured nearby.

He was taken to hospital and arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary. A third man was arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. Police later arrested a fourth man on suspicion of aggravated burglary after stopping a vehicle.

One woman living near the scene in Whaley Bridge, Derbys, said: “Obviously, it’s shocking when something like this happens on your doorstep. I’ve had people ringing me asking if I’m OK. This is normally a sleepy little town.”

(BBC)

Another said: ”It’s just not something we expect anywhere, never mind here. It’s quiet, it’s peaceful, people know each other. It’s very sad.” And a third said: “The farm is in a remote location, quite deep in the valley and set back from the main road.”

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Ch Supt Dave Kirby, of Derbyshire Police, said: “We appreciate the impact this incident is having on this small rural community and we’d like to thank local residents for their help with this investigation so far. We are aware there has been some speculation locally around this and while we are in the early stages of the investigation, we believe this is a targeted incident. At this stage, we don’t believe there is any wider risk to the public.

“Residents in the area will see an increased police presence in the area for some time as investigations continue and we will provide further updates as soon as we are able. I would ask that people limit speculation and allow officers to conduct their investigation unhindered.

“I would also urge anyone with any information that can assist us in this to contact us.” Derbyshire Police said yesterday the man who died has not yet been formally identified. The surviving gunshot victim, who suffered serious injuries, is still being treated in hospital.

Paul Byrne