Police launch murder probe after man dies in hospital following shooting in Essex

Police have launched a murder investigation after a man in his 50s died in hospital following a shooting in Essex on Saturday morning.

The man was taken to hospital after reportedly being shot multiple times outside an address on Water Lane, Roydon, near Harlow, by a group of people in a car.

Despite efforts of medics he died in hospital on Sunday afternoon, said Essex Police, which has now launched a murder enquiry.

Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Greg Wood said: “This is now a murder investigation and we will continue our work to find those responsible for this man's death, and bring them to justice.”

“Our investigation is progressing well and we're beginning to build up a picture of what happened, but we still need anyone with information to come forward.

“If you saw or heard anyone leaving the area in the moments after the incident, or have any CCTV or dash cam footage, please get in contact with the team.

“It doesn’t matter how small or insignificant you think it is, it could be vital to our investigation.”

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According to reports, a group of people in a car fired several times at people who were having a party.

Two women are also believed to have been taken to hospital with gunshot wounds.

Essex Live reported that Harlow MP Robert Halfon had said the incident could be “gang-related”.

He told the newspaper: “I have spoken to the police this morning and I understand that it is possible that this was gang-related criminal activity.”

He said he would work with local police and the area’s police commissioner to keep Harlow and Roydon safe.