RESIDENTS have been urged to be vigilant after a man was found dead with stab wounds in a flat.

Police and paramedics found the man – named locally as 52-year-old Gordon McGhee – after being called to a concern for welfare at an address in Forest Road, Colchester, on Wednesday.

Officers confirmed he had suffered stab wounds to his back and chest.

They then launched a murder investigation which initially involved checking local CCTV and carrying out house-to-house enquiries.

Mr McGhee’s next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

Tim Young, who represents Greenstead on Colchester Council has visited the scene and spoken to people living nearby.

Mr McGhee was found in a Colchester Borough Homes property and Mr Young said: “I spoke to a few people who were keen to know what was going on.

“Many people were shocked.

“We wanted to support and give advice if we could.

“The incident happened in a council owned property so it puts a bit more onus on the council to work alongside the police to make sure people feel safe.

“It is a very strong, resilient community in Greenstead with a lot of community spirit.

“Thankfully, incidents like this are very rare but people do worry about them and hopefully they will be able to bounce back.

“Thoughts and prayers are with the victim’s family and friends at what must be a truly awful time.”

Mr Young also urged residents to be careful with police yet to make an arrest in relation to the man’s death.

He said: “The police reacted very quickly and very appropriately and have remained on the scene ever since.

“But I would urge people to be vigilant as there have been no arrests.

“If anyone has any information – it doesn’t matter if you think it is trivial or insignificant – then call the police.

“We don’t know how important any kind of information might end up being.”

A spokesman for Colchester Borough Homes said: “We were shocked and saddened to hear of the tragic death reported in a home we manage in Forest Road.

“We will be supporting the local police with their investigation and continue to offer assurance to the local community with the help of a dedicated housing officer.” 

Police want to speak to anyone who saw anything suspicious in Forest Road – close to the junction of Penrice Close – between 11pm on Tuesday and shortly before Mr McGhee was found at 2.45pm on Wednesday.

Witnesses and anyone with information are asked to contact the West Major Crime Team on 101 or email scd.appeals.essex@essex.pnn.police.uk.

Alternatively, contact the Crimestoppers charity 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or use the anonymous online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org