Police investigate deaths in neighbouring homes in Braintree

Essex Police is investigating the deaths of two men who lived at separate, neighbouring addresses in Eagle Lane, Braintree.

On the afternoon of Sunday, 15, 2012, the body of one of the deceased, Mr Alan Taylor, who was 59 years old, was discovered by members of his family.

The other deceased man was discovered by an Essex Police officer whilst carrying out a search of the vicinity late in the afternoon. It is not possible to formally identify the second man at this stage, as we are still working to make contact with his next of kin which we hope to do as soon as possible.

Both deaths are being treated as suspicious at this time. A full forensic examination is taking place at the properties of both deceased men. A biologist and pathologist are both attending the scene to support the investigation.

Enquiries are continuing to establish the sequence of events leading to the both deaths.

Post mortem examinations are expected to take place in the next 48 hours.

Detectives from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate will be in a position to give more information when they have established exactly what has happened at these two addresses.

At this stage we are unable to confirm whether or not we are looking for anyone else in relation to this investigation. However we can confirm that our enquiries are focusing on the movements of both men since January 1, 2012.

Chief Supt Michelle Dunn said: "As the Divisional Commander for this area, I would like to reassure the community that we have full control of this situation. The public can have every confidence that a large number of our officers and police staff are working around the clock to determine what happened.

"Our thoughts are with the families of the deceased at this difficult time."

Anyone with information should contact Essex Police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.