Police seek murder weapon used in Brighton stabbing

A 51-year-old man was left to die in a pool of blood at his home after he was stabbed several times in the chest and side of his body yesterday morning.

Police were called to the house in Elm Grove, Brighton, at about 10am after neighbours heard a scream and saw a man running from the property.

The victim died in the shared hallway of the property a short time later despite the efforts of paramedics who tried to revive him. The house is believed to be shared by tenants aged in their 40s and 50s, including men and women from South America and Britain.

Part of Elm Grove was cordoned off as scenes of crime officers carried out their investigation Officers attending the scene quickly arrested two people.

A 29-year-old was released and is being treated as a significant witness to the events which took place at the murder scene.

A 41-year-old man, who was arrested in Worthing after taking a taxi from Brighton, was still being questioned late last night.

A post mortem examination of the man's body is due to take place this morning.

Police have said they have no indication yet as to why the man was killed.

Detective Chief Inspector Trevor Bowles, who is leading the inquiry, said: “We are trying to piece together the events which led to the death of this middle-aged man at Elm Grove. He was stabbed several times in the chest and side of his body.

“We have spoken to a number of witnesses who have assisted us in putting together exactly what happened and why.

“I would urge anyone who saw a confrontation on the doorstep of 67 Elm Grove, Brighton, yesterday to come forward and help us find the killer.

“We urgently need to trace the murder weapon. I believe that a knife has been used to commit this murder.

“Should anyone find a blood stained knife, please call us. It is vital that we trace this weapon.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Sussex Police, quoting Operation Odessa, on 0845 6070999, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.