Vital arrest in killing probe
Detectives investigating the death of a Shropshire man robbed as he walked home have made an arrest leading to a "significant development" in the manslaughter inquiry. Detectives investigating the death of a Shropshire man robbed as he walked home have made an arrest leading to a "significant development" in the manslaughter inquiry. Top detectives have refused to reveal whether the suspect, arrested in connection with the death of 41-year-old Neil Williams, was a man or a woman, their age or where they were arrested. But Detective Inspector John Elcock, leading the investigation, said this was the "biggest development" in the case since Mr Williams's death in Stirchley, Telford, on Good Friday. Read the full story in today's Shropshire Star
But Detective Inspector John Elcock, leading the investigation, said this was the "biggest development" in the case since Mr Williams's death in Stirchley, Telford, on Good Friday.
Mr Williams, described by his family as a "gentle giant", was discovered dead on a footpath at the back of Churncote in Stirchley.
Today Mr Elcock said: "A person has been arrested over the weekend which has led to a significant development in the inquiry.
"I cannot reveal any further details about the person arrested at this time.
"This is the biggest development in the investigation so far. Information has been received by the investigation team which has led to to the arrest of this individual."
Mr Elcock, who refused to reveal whether the arrested person was still being quizzed by detectives or had been released, issued a warning to people in the Randlay and Stirchley community whom he believes are withholding information to "shield" others.
"This is the next step in finding the people behind Neil's death," he said.
"We are getting closer to the people responsible and those people who have had anything to do with this incident need to come forward now. If they don't come forward now then I can only assume the worst."
About 20 officers are involved, with many cancelling annual leave and working through weekends to solve the case.
Mr Williams's jacket, mobile phone, cash and trainers were stolen in the robbery and are still missing. A post mortem examination has failed to find a precise cause of death.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Telford police on 08457 444888, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.
By Crime Correspondent Kirsty Marston
