Shrewsbury murder probe after man found on canal path

A murder inquiry has been launched after a 43-year-old man, who was found critically injured at 1am on an old canal path in Shropshire, died today.

The victim, who has not been formally identified, was discovered lying on the old canal footpath between Ditherington Road and Telford Way in Shrewsbury.

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He was found with a serious head injury shortly before 1am by a member of the public ,who dialled 999.

The man was taken to the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital and then transferred to the University Hospital of North Staffordshire, but he died shortly after 8.30am.

A 40-year-old man who was arrested in connection with the incident was in custody at Shrewsbury police station this afternoon.

Police have cordoned off the path at Ditherington Road and Telford Way and were guarding the scene this morning.

Police vans remain at the scene as investigators carried out examinations and a detailed search.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil Jamieson said: “We are appealing for any information into what is now being treated as a murder inquiry.

“In particular, we want to hear from anyone who was in the area of Ditherington Road from late afternoon yesterday through to about 1am today.”

A post mortem examination will be held. Shropshire coroner Mr John Ellery has been informed and an inquest will be opened. Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101.