Injured man who died near river named by police

Pedestrian bridge closed off with police tape, a high-visibility jacket draped over the railing, with residential buildings partially visible behind trees.

Image source, Northamptonshire Police
Image caption,

The river is partly closed to both pedestrians and water traffic while investigations take place

  • Published

A man who died after being found injured has been named by police, who have started a murder investigation.

At 06:30 BST on Friday, officers were called to a canal footpath behind Auctioneers Court, Northampton, where Robert Brown, 57, was found fatally injured on a bench.

Currently a cause of death is unknown but a forensic post-mortem examination on Saturday found he had a wound to his arm.

Part of the River Nene has been closed to pedestrians and river traffic between London Road bridge and Nunn Mills Road bridge.

The force said the river will likely remain closed until Tuesday evening while searches take place.

The canal footpath between Trenery Way footpath at Wathen Wigg bridge and Becket's Bridge also remains closed.

Person in a white protective suit, gloves and mask collecting samples near bushes. A nearby bridge is blocked with blue and white police tape.Image source, Northamptonshire Police
Image caption,

Searches are taking place near the River Nene

Thanking the community for their support, Det Ch Insp Jen Lovatt said: "This is an exceptionally sad incident and our thoughts and sincere condolences remain with Robert's family, who continue to be supported by specially trained officers.

"We have already spoken with a number of people as part of our ongoing inquiries but we are continuing to appeal for anyone who may have information, who we haven't yet spoken with, to come forward."

On Saturday, Northamptonshire Police appealed to those living in nearby apartments overlooking the River Nene as they may be able to help the investigation.

Those with information or video footage have been urged to contact the police.

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