Five arrested in murder probe after dad stabbed to death

Five people have been arrested by detectives investigating the murder of Paul Foster. Paul was fatally stabbed inside a property on Muirhead Avenue, West Derby, at around 1.40am on Tuesday, October 15.

Police attended the scene following a report a 47-year-old man had been seriously injured. Mr Foster, from the Newsham Park area, was rushed to hospital after suffering from a puncture wound but died.

Merseyside Police confirmed a series of warrants were carried out at addresses across Merseyside this morning (Tuesday, November 19).

Those arrested are:

• A 59-year-old man from the L15 area arrested on suspicion of murder

• A 56-year-old man from the L7 area arrested on suspicion of murder

• A 58-year-old man from the L13 area arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder

• A 30-year-old woman from the L6 area arrested on suspicion of murder

• A 39-year-old woman from the L7 area arrested on suspicion of murder

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Detective Chief Inspector Steve McGrath said: “Our investigations into Paul’s death continues. We are still appealing for people who saw or heard something suspicious to please come forward as a matter of urgency.

“I ask those who live in the area of Muirhead Avenue to please check your CCTV or doorbell footage to see if it has captured anything which could assist our enquiries. Muirhead Avenue is a busy main road, so if you were driving past at around the time of the incident, please review your dashcam footage and let us know if you see anything.

Following the murder, detectives arrested three people on suspicion of murder. They were: a 24-year-old woman from Anfield, a 49-year-old woman from West Derby and a 38-year-old woman from Litherland. They have since been bailed pending further enquiries.

In a tribute released a week on from his death, Paul's family said: "Paul was a much-loved son, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and a true friend to many. He was known for his sense of fun and infectious smile.

“He was a kind-hearted and funny man who would light up any room. He will be sorely missed, but never forgotten by his heart-broken family and friends.”

In a tribute on a GoFundMe page, his niece, Rio Foster, wrote: "Paul was unexpectedly and abhorrently taken from us on 15/10/24, leaving behind a heartbroken mother, children, sisters, nieces, nephews, friends, and many others. Those who knew Paul will remember him for his witty sense of humour, generosity, and love for life.

"We have already received countless testimonials from those who knew Paul, reciting their heart-warming memories with him. We want to give Paul the send-off he deserves, and would like to raise funds for the funeral expenses.

"The family and I are hoping to arrange Paul's funeral on the date of my great grandmother's anniversary, who Paul shared a birthday with, as a tribute to the bond the two shared. Any support would be greatly appreciated. Please keep Paul and our family in your thoughts and prayers."

Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has information which could help police with their inquiries, is asked to DM @MerPolCC, message ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre on Facebook’ with reference 24000877985. You can also pass information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Always call 999 if a crime is in progress.